The Historic Nashville House
~ by Julia Pearson
Four years ago, Hoosiers read with dismay in the Indianapolis Star, that a much-loved restaurant and Brown County landmark would close its doors. For over nine decades, patrons filled up on the country-fried chicken, ham, mashed potatoes, pies, fried biscuits and apple butter at the Nashville House. This announcement came three months after the passing of owner Andy Rogers. After his estate was settled, Andy’ s daughter and son-in-law, Andrea( Andi) Rogers Bartels and Lance Bartels, re-opened this mainstay of hospitality. Many are happy to see
recent photos by Cindy Steele
that the local history timeline of the Nashville House is continuing.
A sign attached to the Nashville House, located on the intersection of East Main Street and South Van Buren Street( State Route 135), states:“ Ever since the year 1867, a public hostelry of one form or another has occupied this corner.” In 1859, the original Nashville House was built from local timbers and was a two and a half story structure. It served the tired public— loggers, travelers, and artists— seeking a place to rest their heads and a table with nourishing food. Civil
Postcards of the Nashville House( left to right) after the fire, and before.
26 Our Brown County Nov./ Dec. 2022