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History of the READSBORO INN
The Readsboro Inn and Restaurant is rich in history.
The buildings that comprise the Inn, Restaurant, and Pub date from the late 19th century, and have seen many businesses
take up residence there. These include a general store, butchers market, hardware store, barbershop and restaurant.
In 1932, Gerardo and Teresa Bolognani purchased the complex, and the family operated the restaurant for over 70 years.
After Prohibition, Gerardo would drive his Buick to Montpelier to buy beer, stuffing as many cases as he could into the car!
Blue Laws were strict at that time, and no alcohol could be served on Sundays, Election Day, or Town Meeting Day. Patrons
had to be seated at all times, and no drinks could be carried from one place to another. During the 20th century, the
tourist trade boomed in the area, and drinking regulations eased. Today, patrons move freely, and even enjoy a cocktail
on the outside deck!
During the Bolognani tenure, the Restaurant and Bar flourished
as businesses in the town expanded. The family renovated the second floor into seven guest rooms, which were
rented out to weary travelers and local workers. During World War II, troops guarding the Harriman Dam and Hoosac Tunnel were
housed in the attic. Interestingly, this attic also was once used for casket and piano storage!
In 2002, the Bolognani family sold the complex to Marcia
Evans. Marcia undertook several major renovations, including expanding the dining room, moving the bar into the old
market space, and adding the front deck for diners to enjoy. The Restaurant was also upgraded to offer patrons a finer
dining experience, including items such as prime rib, chicken marsala, and grilled swordfish.
In 2008, Marcia sold the Inn to Tom Lescoe and Mark Robel.
Tom and Mark were from the Boston area, and had been vacationing and weekending at their home in Whitingham for several years.
Looking for a calmer, more peaceful lifestyle for themselves and their son Little Mark, this opportunity was ideal.
Mark and Tom have begun more renovations on the complex, and have the passion and vision to renovate without compromising
the quality or integrity of the structure. The Dining Room has been beautifully renovated, with the addition of a cozy
wood stove, soft wall lighting, wide plank floors, and warm earth tone colors. This room still holds some nostalgic relics
from the past, such as the original Readsboro Inn road sign, and the huge blackboard announcing the daily specials and homemade
deserts.
Patrons now enjoy wonderful food and an extensive wine list,
while being seated among local artists’ crafts, which are displayed throughout the Dining Room. A weekend brunch
menu consists of seasonal and local organic ingredients, including their famous corned beef hash! The Pub is a
great place to relax and meet the locals, have a pint, and enjoy the new touch-tone jukebox. Special events are held
several times a month, and include local bands, ladies night, and a DJ for those who like to “cut a rug”!
The Inn consists of seven cozy, unique rooms, recently renovated.
Each room is different, but the relaxed, country lifestyle feel runs throughout. There are patchwork quilts, iron beds, tin
ceilings, and unique furniture in each room. The rooms also include modern conveniences such as Wi-Fi and DirecTV, plush
sheets and towels. The guest rooms share two modern baths.
The Readsboro Inn has a rich past and a promising future.
Mark and Tom are committed to continue the heritage established years ago by the Bolognani family – a place for locals
to gather, travelers to rest, and diners to feast! Everyone is welcome at the Readsboro Inn. Visit us for a true
taste of Southern Vermont.
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