Discover History at Ohio’s Bed and Breakfast Inns
Bed and Breakfasts are not just a great place for comfort and cuisine, they often provide a glimpse into the past. For those traveling to the Buckeye State, here is a sample of Ohio’s most historic inns and bed and breakfasts.
Filled With Civil War History
Ohio residents were key players in transporting runaway slaves through the Underground Railroad. The Hallauer House Bed and Breakfast, circa 1830 is located in Oberlin, where anti-slavery activists fought for human rights during the Civil War. Ring the vintage doorbell and step back in time-each guest room is decorated with Civil War artifacts, including authentic Union and Confederate swords. There is a cut-out section in the floor with a dirt alcove underneath as well as a dry cistern which are two indicators of an Underground Railroad station. Pegs instead of nails can be seen in the inn’s basement and attic. The “History Buff Package” includes Civil War storytelling by owner Joe Woodward who is a retired educator and lifelong Civil War buff, and tickets to the Oberlin Heritage Center.
Located just half a block from Ulysses S. Grant’s boyhood home, the 1830s Bailey’s House, is an historic gem. The home is one of the oldest in Georgetown and appears nearly the same as it did in 1832, save for an addition from the 1870s. The Bailey family were close friends of the Grant’s, and the future president visited the house often as a young man. The three guest rooms are decorated with antiques, adding to the historic ambiance. The home is close to quilt barns, covered bridges, historic sites, and even wineries.
Still Standing: Springboro’s Oldest Home
The Wright House Bed and Breakfast was built in 1815 to serve as the home for Springboro’s founder . The National Register home is the town’s oldest and once served as a hiding place along the Underground Railroad, one of 27 documented stops in the area. The inn features an excellent collection of antiques, including a victrola, player piano and pump organ. Guests are treated to both gourmet breakfasts, as well as afternoon tea.
A Presidential Favorite
Not only is the Golden Lamb one of the most historic inns in the country, built in 1803, it also has had one of the most impressive guest lists. A dozen presidents, including John Quincy Adams, Ulysses S. Grant, and Ronald Reagan have stayed at the inn. Charles Dickens and Mark Twain were among some the other notable guests. Rooms, each named for famous guest, are decorated in period style and filled with antiques. The inn’s full-service restaurant is located in the original portion of the building.
Time Travel
Built as a stagecoach stop along a route from Buffalo to Cleveland, Rider’s 1812 Inn has served a variety of guests to the Painesville area. Among them are runaway slaves seeking refuge along the Underground Railroad and soldiers returning home at the end of the Civil War. In the 1920s, the inn was even used as a speakeasy. The inn’s dining room, named for the original owner’s third wife, still serves up authentic 19th-century recipes.