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 The Elegant History of the Stratford Inn Carlos Latin originally owned the property where the hotel is located in 1843, who was the founder of Sycamore. In 1855, a stagecoach owner, Timothy Wells, purchased the property to build a shelter for a stagecoach stop.In 1882, Reuben Ellwood purchased the property and a built a $28,000 mansion. Ellwood was the first mayor of the city and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. It is believed that the first floor was used as high congressional house. There is a built-in wall safe that still exists in the building today. Mr. Ellwood died at the age of 64 in 1885. Mrs. Ellwood remained in the mansion until her death, and a local merchant, Henry C. Whittemore purchased the mansion from the estate in 1896. In 1925, Henry B. Fargo of Geneva was negotiating to buy the property from Mary Whittemore, spinster daughter of Henry Whittemore. Mary placed a restriction on the sale of the property to Mr. Fargo. The restriction allowed only part of the structure to be removed, and Mary would be allowed to remain in the portion of the home in her own private suite. In 1926, the Fargo Hotel was constructed in an "L" shape around the mansion. It consisted of 60 rooms, some with plumbing, but mainly baths and showers were centrally located in the halls. The hotel operated under several different owners until 1972.  In 1972, the building was purchased by Tom and Debra Carls who operated the Carls Fargo Coach Rooms. They ceased renting the two upper floors, as utility costs became prohibitive. The restaurant and lounge however remained in operation.In late 1982, funds were raised to form a new corporation, whose main function was to remodel the two upper floors of the hotel into a modern hotel facility. Construction began in February of 1983. All rooms were enlarged to the present number of 39 rooms. Virtually everything was replaced or remodeled. The hotel now consists of 10 double queen rooms, 25 single queen rooms, two-corner king rooms and two master suites. The two Corner Suited are located in the corner of each floor and are spacious rooms with king size beds, Jacuzzi baths, amenities, easy chair, and desk area. The Master Suites are housed in what was the original mansion of Reuben Ellwood. The antique woodwork in the hallway hints at the history of the structure. The original woodwork was removed, restored and used in the remodeling of the Suites. The Ellwood Suite (Room 213) consists of a large dining room and living area. The dining area has an oval oak table, which seats six people comfortably. The new, but period furniture tastefully compliments the woodwork and décor of the suites. A wet-bar and refrigerator allow the suite to be intimate yet entertaining. The elegant master bedroom, decorated with antique oak furniture, and a four posted bed carry through the "mansion feeling". The highlight of the master bedroom is the 54" x 74" Jacuzzi for your relaxation. There is television in both the living room and bedroom area, complete with HBO, ESPN, and other satellite channels. The Whittemore Suite (Room 211) is frequently referred to as our bridal suite. Upon entering the suite, with its beige carpeting and navy and beige accents, you are in the living room area. The television and refrigerator are nestled in the midst of the living room. There is also a wet bar for entertaining, or for a private toast to the newlyweds. The original spindles from the Ellwood mansion reveal an open staircase leading to the lofted master bedroom. The lofted bedroom was once the attic of the historic mansion. A queen size 4 posted bed is complimented by traditional Georgian mahogany furniture, and an elaborate Jacuzzi bath. The lobby area, as well the as the entire restaurant and lounge were also redecorated in 1983. Over two miles of hand carving was constructed in the woodwork. The hunter green carpeting in the lounge and lobby was imported from England. The three brass chandeliers were custom made for the lobby. A covered skylight was reopened in the rear of the lobby and all restrooms are completely new. A new elevator was installed, which is one of four in the city of Sycamore. The Stratford Inn, in its present form, re-opened for business on September 15, 1983 after the one million dollar renovation was completed. It is an asset to the community and we are all proud to be a part of the establishment. |
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Stratford Inn | 355 West State Street | Sycamore | IL | 815.895.6789 | 800.937.8106