What if I told you that Potts Hall is more than just a university building? It holds echoes of a bygone era. It whispers tales of fortunes made and architectural grandeur. This is the story of Potts Hall. It is connected to a famous hotel. That hotel was Adams’ Tattersall’s Hotel. It was owned by George Adams.
George Adams was quite a character. He went from being an innkeeper to a millionaire publican. Horse racing was his passion. It helped him rise through the ranks. Adams became known as “The Man in the Hat”. He was tall and imposing with red hair. He founded Tattersall’s Sweepstakes. This made him even more famous.
Adams’ journey began far from Sydney. He was born in a small village in England. His family immigrated to Australia. This was after financial troubles hit their farm. At 26 Adams ran the Steam Packet Hotel. It was in Kiama on the NSW South Coast. He worked as a butcher. He also drove for Cobb & Co coaching.
His heart belonged to the Sport of Kings. Adams frequently visited Sydney. He attended races at O’Brien’s Hotel. O’Brien’s Tattersall’s Hotel was a hub for sporting enthusiasts. It later became the site of the Hilton Hotel. Adams dreamed of owning such a place.
Fate intervened and Adams became the owner. Three of his punting mates bought O’Brien’s for him. He renamed it Adams’ Tattersall’s Hotel. In 1881 he started a lottery. The prize was substantial. Adams’ Tattersall’s Sweepstakes became widely known.
Success followed Adams. He repaid his mates. He commissioned a stunning bar. It was designed by Varney Parkes. This was the Marble Bar. It became legendary.
The Marble Bar was opulent. It featured marble walls stained glass mirrors and mahogany. Julian Ashton’s paintings adorned the walls. It was described as the handsomest marble hall in Australia. The Sydney Evening News raved about its beauty.
Adams faced challenges. The government outlawed his sweepstakes. He moved his business to Queensland then Tasmania and Victoria. He invested in various ventures. These included collieries and electric light stations.
In 1902 Adams bought the Tasmanian Brewery. He planned to expand his business. However he died in Hobart in 1904. He was 65.
Adams left a legacy. He never had children. His family estate inherited Tattersalls Hotel. The hotel was renamed Adams’ Hotel in his honor.
Sadly Adams’ Hotel was demolished. This made way for the Hilton Hotel. But the Marble Bar was saved. It was carefully dismantled and reassembled. It now resides in the Hilton.
Today the Marble Bar stands. It is a tribute to George Adams. He was a true Australian entrepreneur. So remember this story. When you think of Potts Hall remember the connection to the Marble Bar. Remember George Adams and his journey from innkeeper to millionaire. His spirit lives on.