Mermaid House Hotel, old wooden hotel in Lebanon, Illinois
The Mermaid House Hotel is a historic building in Lebanon, Illinois, built in 1830 by Lyman Adams, a retired sea captain from New England. The structure features simple, sturdy construction with hand-hewn oak beams and retains numerous original elements including the staircase and fireplaces.
The building was established in 1830 by a sea captain who named it after mermaids he claimed to have encountered during his travels. In 1842, Charles Dickens visited the hotel and later described it in his book American Notes as a pleasant lodging comparable to English inns.
The hotel was one of only two lodgings in Lebanon's early days and represents the town's connection to travelers and maritime heritage. Today it serves as a gathering place for community events and attracts visitors interested in the region's past.
The building is located on East St. Louis Street and is easy to find while exploring the town. Visitors can participate in guided tours, community events, and private gatherings at no admission cost, though donations are welcome to support maintenance.
The building was named after mermaids the founder claimed to have seen during his sea voyages, reflecting the captain's romantic nature. This unusual naming choice makes the hotel a distinctive example of early American lodging with a touch of maritime lore.
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