History
The historic Stephentown Hotel @ 10 Hotel Road, Stephentown, New York.
The Stephentown Hotel: A Historic Gem
The Stephentown Hotel is a historic building that has been in operation since the mid-19th century. Despite undergoing several ownership changes and renovations, it retains much of its original charm and character. The hotel offers several rooms and suites, which have been renovated to provide modern amenities while preserving the historic feel of the building.
Built in the 1860s and officially opened in 1878, the hotel was initially known as “The Stephentown House Hotel” and later as “Mac’s.” Founded by Peter Kushow (or Couchot), it was later sold to John F. Cassidy and eventually to the Morin brothers, Joseph and Olive, who operated it as “Joe’s Place.” The hotel competed with the Vanderbilt House, another railroad hotel nearby.
On December 8, 1941, Emily Morin purchased the hotel from her cousin Joe. She operated the hotel and opened a bar on the first floor, known as Emily’s, which became a Stephentown staple well into the 2000s. In 1948, the hotel room rate was $2 per night. Emily Morin passed away in 1994, and her daughter Marilyn took over operations until 2009. Marilyn once said of Emily, “My mother was its legend. At 4 feet 10 inches, she controlled it like a giant.” According to Marilyn, Emily operated the hotel and bar 364 days a year, closing only on Christmas Day.
The hotel was sold in 2009 to Miguel Melendez, and later to Jennifer and Tim Austin, who opened the Stephentown Trading Post, which closed in 2020.
In 2021, Dillon Nash, the current proprietor, purchased the building. After a three-year gut renovation, the Stephentown Hotel reopened, 13 years after its original closure. The Nash family plans to honor the hotel’s history, making it a family-friendly destination and a family-run business. From our family to yours, please enjoy your stay!
Check out NY Weekly’s article on the Stephentown Hotel!
Discover Stephentown’s Rich History
Founded in 1784, Stephentown has a rich history and played a role in the American Revolution. It was home to notable figures like Stephen Van Rensselaer, a prominent landowner and politician. Today, the town is known for its close-knit community and strong sense of local pride. The Taconic Mountains run along the eastern side of the town, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Stephentown also boasts several parks and nature preserves, including the Cranston Creek Preserve and the Taconic Ridge State Forest.
