The Clark Hotel

- January 20, 2018

Undated photo of the Clark Hotel (donated by the James Barr Estate to the Historical Society)

Years ago we would dine at the 1800 House on Fridays on fish and chips. The food was good and a bargain because seconds were included, something my kids loved. The building was a bit lopsided, the washroom was located upstairs and the floor had a definite pitch, you could feel it when you walked.

The 1808 House had a long history, it served as the refectory for the students at Appleton Academy. There was a path that led through the woods behind the Inn. It is still visible but crosses private residences.

But before the 1808 House, the Willowbrook Tavern existed on the same site and before that The Clark Hotel. It was a stop for a stagecoach that would transport passengers from the Railroad Station in Greenville, travel via Bank Village and deposit them at the Hotel.

Postcard of the 1808 - Unknown date, perhaps 1960s
When we dined in the 1980s the fence was gone and it was just a restaurant

In 1900s this was the way to travel
Standing left to right: Alfred Woodward, Albert Blood (with drum), Joseph Silver, Dan Bruce
On top left to right: Moses M Balch, John Burton, 5 children, George and Lester Silver, Eugene Blood, Charles Blood (Driver)
NIHS catalog - 97.225

Stereoscopic view of Surveyors
Gift of John Preston
NIHS catalog 92.128

Old Sturbridge Village photo by Donald F. Eaton
NIHS catalog 99.15

Joseph Silver (Hotel owner) with his family
NIHS catalog 92.129

The 1808 had gardens and landscaping
Photo donated by James Barr of Willowbrook Tavern
MIHS catalog 92.139

1808 House
The large barn (left) was used for large parties, dances and entertainment. It was removed in the early 1970s.
Photo gift from grandson of Dr. Archibald R. Gardner
NHIS catalog 21A