Waterbury Inn

A former Waterbury landmark, the Waterbury Inn, built by William Deal and dedicated March 5, 1865, is now recalled only in memory and photographs.

A tavern or inn seems to have existed at the corner of Main Street and Park Row over the years. In local history confusion with the Stowe Street and Main Street intersection is noted to exist: taverns existed at both places. Names included American House and Waterbury House. It is factual that Amasa Pride had a home and business on this corner.

Photographs displayed here trace the history of this building, from earliest days to the tragic fire of November 3-4, 1953 (the 26th anniversary of the Flood of 1927).

Numerous owners and managers maintained the Inn over the years. Perhaps W.F. Davis served the longest tenure and is most remembered by townsfolk.

Situated behind the Inn was a croquet course for guests' entertainment. At one time deer were penned there. An archery course abutted the golf course, on Blush Hill which was advertised as the Waterbury Inn Golf Course. Local organizations met at the Inn and celebrations, tea and card parties were held there.

Families would come by rail for a vacation at the Inn, availing themselves of the previously mentioned activities plus trips to Stowe, up Mansfield, picnics or porch rocking. Livery stables and other businesses flourished.

A 1930's brochure indicates the appeal of the hostelry-- "newly decorated with innerspring mattresses-- most rooms have twin beds and private baths-- and elevator takes you up and down-- rates $7 per day or $47.50 week-- rates include meals of course."

In the late 1940's, the property was purchased by Elmond Molony beginning a saga reflective of a Dorothy Sayers mystery. Mrs. Pauline Malony was found dead in the rear of the hotel in March 1950. Clad in night wear, bruised about the knees and legs the body was found at 9 A.M., apparently having been outside all night. A cerebral hemorrhage caused by a blow to the head was the cause of death. Dr. Henry St. Antoine, a long term guest, committed suicide by leaping in front of a Central Vermont train; Mr. Edmond Molony died of natural causes; Robert Molony, Jr., who was managing the Inn for his uncle's estate, perished in the fire. Was there something rotten in Denmark? Does Waterbury have an unsolved mystery?

The Waterbury Square now stands where the Waterbury Inn once graced Main Street.