Historic Charm
The Celebration of a Lifetime
rabbithillinn . com
Inn Vermont : Rabbit Hill Inn
75 , are complemented by a rich wine list , featuring Champagnes , sparkling wines , Chardonnays , full-bodied reds , and much more . Beer enthusiasts will delight in locally-brewed Vermont beers , adding another layer of local flavor and cultural immersion .
Historic Charm
Rabbit Hill Inn ’ s rich history traces back to the late 1700s , when Lower Waterford served as a vital passage for travelers journeying from Montreal to bustling ports in Maine and Massachusetts . It was against this backdrop of burgeoning commerce that Samuel Hodby , the original landowner , recognized an opportunity to provide respite for weary travelers . In 1795 , Hodby established the Hodby Tavern & General Store , laying the foundation for what would eventually become Rabbit Hill Inn .
Over the years , ownership changed hands many times , and the inn underwent several transformations . In 1825 , Jonathan Cummings erected the Main House as his residence and workshop , expanding the inn ’ s offerings to accommodate the growing influx of travelers . Subsequent owners , such as Fred Cross & O . G . Hale , further enhanced the inn ’ s facilities , adding wings and parlors that still stand today .
Throughout the following decades , Rabbit Hill Inn welcomed a diverse roster of passionate new proprietors , each leaving their indelible mark within the storied walls of its winsome structures . Yet , it wasn ’ t until Eric and Beryl Charlton took the reins in 1980 that Rabbit Hill Inn truly began to blossom into the luxurious haven it is today . Under their stewardship , the inn underwent significant renovations , ushering in a new era . In 1997 , Brian and Leslie Mulcahy , former guests-turned-proprietors , breathed new life into Rabbit Hill Inn , elevating it to unparalleled heights of excellence . Their unwavering dedication to preserving the inn ’ s historical integrity while infusing it with modern comforts has ensured that Rabbit
Hill Inn remains a celebrated retreat for generations to come .
Recently , Rabbit Hill Inn embarked on a new chapter under the careful stewardship of Mark Lahood , Barry Caplan , and Benjamin Hur , hospitality luminaries with a wealth of industry experience . Their commitment to upholding the inn ’ s rich traditions while embracing innovation promises to carry Rabbit Hill Inn into the future , ensuring continual betterment of the guest experience .
The Celebration of a Lifetime
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Rabbit Hill Inn is the lasting impact it has on the lives of its guests , which is perfectly demonstrated through the story of a visiting couple shared by Lahood . “ We had a couple that came in last week ,” recounts Lahood . “ They have been coming here for over 40 years , and Rabbit Hill Inn served as the site of countless unforgettable vacations for them .” As their mobility began to decline , the couple decided to make one more celebratory trip to Rabbit Hill — a testament to the enduring allure of the inn and the special role it has played in their lifelong romance . Moved by their dedication and loyalty , the staff at Rabbit Hill Inn went above and beyond to ensure that the couple ’ s visit was nothing short of extraordinary . “ We bought them a wonderful complimentary dinner and gave them a great bottle of wine ,” shares Lahood . The couple ’ s departure was marked by hugs and sentimental gratitude expressed to the staff , emphasizing that at Rabbit Hill , every guest plays a prominent role in their evolving story as a cherished Vermont hospitality institution . n
rabbithillinn . com
72 VERMONT MAGAZINE