The Story of Elms Inn
No fairy tale, this but...once upon a time, - in 1760, and upon an historical American Revolutionary War battle site, - that of the Battle of Ridgefield, a master cabinet-maker built the charming colonial house that is now known as The Elms Inn. After he finished his house, old Amos Seymour lovingly fashioned each piece of furniture to more perfectly complete his masterpiece. Alas, many of these original pieces were stolen but others were carefully selected to replace them.
The sound of battle is heard no more and no thieves have removed any of the furnishings of late, although a cannon ball lodged in the fork of a large shade tree did, one day, mysteriously disappear.
Since 1799, when it became an Inn, the same loving care and artistry that marked its beginning has been applied to every phase of its operation. To partake of a meal is no mundane experience in eating, but rather an adventure in dining.
To those of discriminating taste, The Elms extend a warm invitation, not alone to visit us, but to become a part of our tradition.
Your Innkeepers..
The Scala Family
Managing Historic Elms Inn - A Family Affair..
In 1951, Giancarlo and Victoria Scala purchased the Elms Inn, becoming the fourth family to own and operate it, aided by their four sons, Mario, Carl, Richard, and Bob.
Eventually, Carl and Richard pursued other careers and left the family business in the mid-to-late-fifties. Mario trained under his father, with Bob coming on board in 1960 after completing his tour of duty with the US Army. Mario concentrated on the kitchen, while Bob worked the 'front of the house'.
Giancarlo retired in the late sixties, subsequently passing on in 1971. Mario and Bob assumed full responsibility for running the Elms Inn. In 1978, upon Mario's death, his wife, Violet, became co-owner of the Inn with Bob. Victoria passed on in the summer of 1979.
Edward Scala, joined full time in 1980. In 1982, the Inn building was renovated, providing for the current operation with 23 guest rooms and suites. William Scala joined the operation full time in 1985.
Bob retired in 1996, with Violet Stephen, Edward, and William assuming full ownership of The Elms Inn. Also in that year, the Scala family joined forces with renowned restaurateur, Brendan Walsh.
The successful renovation of the Elms Restaurant and Tavern that followed that same year (1996), earned Brendan four stars and numerous awards for dining excellence. While Brendan focused on the restaurant and tavern, the Scalas concentrated their efforts on renovating and upgrading the accommodations and overall facility. The work done during 1996 paid off, as The Elms Inn was named Inn of the Month by Travel and Leisure in September 1997.
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