Prior to the construction of the San Marin Hotel, this site was the location of a wood-framed commercial building that was most likely a saloon. In 1902, Charles Quilici, who operated a grocery store next door, built the San Marin. It was the first two-story commercial building in Elko County. Features included a dining room that catered to the tastes of travelers desiring more formal fare. While the Quilicis employed a number of managers, they retained ownership for many years.