Eagle House's history places it on state map
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The Eagle House Restaurant, 5578 Main St. in the Village of Williamsville, has been selected by the National Society of Colonial Dames of the XVII Century, New York Chapter to be recognized as a historic site for helping preserve American history.

The 181-year-old establishment and Main Street icon will be honored during the society's September meeting by presenting the owner, Bud Hanny, with a historic marker permanently recognizing the site.

"The Eagle House carries historical significance as a political and social gathering place," said Tricia Browne, whose family has owned it since 1982.

The objective of the Colonial Dames of the XVII Century is to aid in the preservation and marking of significant historic sites and to commemorate the virtue, courage and patriotism that the country was founded upon.

The members share a common interest in American history and love and respect for our country, Browne said.

The Society's Web site is www.colonialdames17c. net.

Browne said its longevity makes the restaurant a significant part of history - and one of the reasons it was selected by the society.

"Its mission, this year, is to ID and recognize significant historical buildings in the State of New York," Browne said.

Built in 1827 by Oziel Smith, The Eagle House has always operated as a restaurant and tavern and holds one of the longest running liquor licenses in the state. At one time it rented out hotel rooms upstairs.

"It originally opened as a stagecoach stop for travelers going from Buffalo to Batavia," she said. "It was a pivotal stop on the wagon and stagecoach lines as Williamsville grew from its pioneering days into a bustling community."

Browne also learned that Joan Klenk, a member of the state chapter who contacted Browne, has a connection to the family. Browne's great-great-grandfather was the best man in Klenk's grandfather's wedding in 1903.

"We hold a place in town history. The vote to incorporate the village was taken here," she said, adding that the founder, Smith, was the first supervisor in Amherst.

The Eagle House has also taken great strides to preserve that history, she said.

There is some evidence that the restaurant may have served as a station on the Underground Railroad.

For more information on the Eagle House's history, visit www.eaglehouseonline. com.