Since 1981, Bob Wilson has held a variety of positions at The Algonquin Hotel, from front desk manager to accounting.

Whether working with guests or working the books, Bob has experienced the unique characteristics of The Algonquin from various posts. Since his first day of work in October of 1981, Bob has never lost his appreciation and loyalty for the hotel he has worked at for the past 22 years.

Q: Who has been your favorite guest?

A: Eudora Welty, who stayed at the hotel a lot, because she was very nice and a quiet person who enjoyed talking to the staff. Also, Maya Angelou because she was very kind and friendly with the staff.

Q: What is your favorite memory of working at the hotel?

A: I have really enjoyed meeting the different mayors of New York who have all come to the hotel such as Guiliani, Koch and Dinkins. And one time, we had a guest who had a phobia of cats and really didn't like meeting our famous lobby cat Matilda. The guest was jumping up and down on the sofas and chairs in the lobby and I guess had no idea Matilda lived at the hotel. Anyway, the guest ended up staying at the hotel and apologizing for the scene in the lobby, but it was very funny.

Q: What do you like most about the hotel?

A: What is so unique about the hotel is that many of the staff have been here for a long time, so the guests really get to know them. Long time guests will even know the housekeeper for a certain floor and request guest rooms based on who the housekeeper will be. While we have competitive hotels on the block, guests come to The Algonquin for the staff and because of the ambience.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in the future of the hotel?

A: Throughout my 22 years here, every owner of the hotel has maintained the tradition of The Algonquin and I really look forward to the continuation of keeping intact the style of the hotel, which makes it so unique. Improvements along the way are good, but keep it the same, say, for example, the Oak Room could be painted, but should always remain oak.