Over 260 Years of Stories at the Foot of Crotched Mountain

The story begins in 1765, when Thomas Quigley, an Irish immigrant, built the first home on the property after relocating to Francestown with his family. Thomas and his descendants established a thriving farm, gifting land to their children and shaping the community. The property later passed to John Quigley, who made his mark as a land surveyor and civic leader before transferring the land to John Wilson in the late 18th century.

In 1794, James Wilson, a Revolutionary War veteran who fought at the pivotal Battle of Bennington, constructed a new home on the property. His son, Alexander Wilson, rebuilt and expanded the estate, completing the iconic brick structure in 1822. The Wilson family farmed the land for generations, raising livestock and growing prized Baldwin apples that were shipped as far as England. During this time, the home also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, sheltering freedom seekers on their journey north.

The Wilson family’s dedication to the land and its community left a lasting legacy, laying the foundation for the property’s future as a place of both refuge and celebration.

In the late 19th century, the property transitioned to the Bryant and Prescott families before becoming a summer retreat. In 1935, Alice Winslow renamed it Hob n’ Nob Farm, adding new wings to the house and managing it as a countryside estate. The Winslow family maintained the property through the Great Depression, World War II, and the Korean War, leaving a legacy of resilience and elegance.

The property’s transformation into an inn began in the 1970s when John and Rose Perry purchased it. They transitioned the estate into a year-round destination, naming it the Inn at Crotched Mountain. Over decades, the inn became a beloved haven for guests seeking tranquility and stunning views at the foot of Crotched Mountain.

In 2021, the property entered a brief yet pivotal period of ownership, during which the inn underwent significant rehabilitation. While this owner preserved much of the building’s charm, they also made the polarizing decision to rename the property the Blue Bear Inn, departing from its long-standing identity as the Inn at Crotched Mountain. This change sparked conversation within the community and among loyal guests, marking a distinct shift in the property’s history.

In 2024, the inn began its next chapter under the stewardship of Robert and Carrie Mayer and Jay and Laura Daratony. Recognizing the emotional ties to both the old and new names, the new owners chose to honor both eras. They decided to retain the name Blue Bear Inn to acknowledge the recent changes while adding the subtitle On Crotched Mountain as a nod to its historical roots and cherished location.

This thoughtful decision reflects the team’s commitment to blending tradition with fresh energy, preserving the rich history of the property while creating a welcoming space for future generations.

Today, the Blue Bear Inn continues to welcome guests to its serene location, offering a perfect blend of historical character and modern hospitality. Visitors can enjoy the lovingly preserved 1822 brick structure, tranquil grounds, and breathtaking views of Crotched Mountain. The inn’s legacy as a place of refuge, community, and celebration remains as vibrant as ever.

Visitors to the Blue Bear Inn are invited to immerse themselves in its rich past. From the stories of Revolutionary War heroes to its ties to the Underground Railroad, every corner of the property tells a tale of resilience, courage, and innovation.

Come stay where history meets modern comfort at the Blue Bear Inn On Crotched Mountain.