By Sharron Luttrell
If you’ve driven through the intersection of Rte. 16 and Main Street recently, chances are you’ve seen the 8 x 30-foot banner next to the Ammidon Tavern. It’s hard to miss — which was Rich Schofield’s intent when he hung it.
The banner wishes the nation a happy 250th and describes Revolutionary War spy Nathan Hale’s visit to the inn in January of 1776.
“That’s the most historic building we have in town. I wanted to get people talking about it and learning about it,” said Schofield, who is treasurer of the Mendon Historical Society. Specifically, Schofield and others want to raise awareness of efforts to preserve the building from destruction or decay.
Mendon resident Jane Lowell owns the property, which her late husband, David, bought with a friend some 40 years ago. The long-vacant building is showing its age and needs extensive renovations inside and out.
Having seen other historic properties in Mendon destroyed, Jane is determined that the circa 1745 tavern endures for at least another 280 years.
The property lies within the Mendon Center Historic District, which has guidelines for exterior changes. Lowell plans to protect its interior as well by placing a historic preservation restriction on the property’s deed. The deed restriction will require future owners to maintain the historical and architectural integrity of original features, such as fireplaces, doors and molding.
“I own it now, but this is a building that, because of its history, belongs to future generations. It’s an iconic building in Mendon,” she said.
Read about the Ammidon Tavern and learn more at the Mendon Historical Society.
