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Memories Old and New

For every brick in this century-old building, there’s a story … and then some. While the most popular story centers on the gruesome murder of Rebecca McClung in 1901, travelers and visitors alike have deposited their own stories into the masonry memory banks of what long-time Mason residents refer to as “The Old Hotel.”

It all began in 1888 when work on a new home, now Tea Roses, for John and Rebecca McClung was completed. John McClung purchased the property in 1879, eventually tearing down the original residence that was built in 1873. On April 12, 1901, life in the McClung house ended abruptly with the murder of Rebecca and the subsequent trial, exoneration and institutional hospitalization of John, who later died in 1904 from heart failure. Many stories of hauntings have been told throughout the years and are as varied as the rhythmic creaks of these hardwood floors. Only the walls know for certain.

Tea Roses became home to a new owner in 1904 and remained a private residence until it was purchased in 1911, opening for business as the Modern Hotel. In 1920, it was converted to a boarding house, renting rooms for 50 cents a day. It remained in operation until 1966 when a new owner returned the building to its original function once again as a residence, later adding a small antique shop. It was during this time that Tea Roses was spared an uncertain fate when the owner, Vernon Mount, decided to repair the roof, destroyed by the 1974 tornado, rather than see the historic building torn down. In 1986, Tea Roses received a facelift when its new owner decorated all 10 rooms and re-opened as P.T.D. & Company Gift Shop. In 1998, the building became the law firm of Sams and Fischer and in 2001; new tenants offered Mason the culinary cuisine of Chokolate Morel.

In 2006, the building came full circle when Mason resident Sally Gasior opened Tea Roses, offering visitors an escape to simpler times – where moments are savored … memories are served up … and conversation is the main course. At Tea Roses, the memories of the past rest alongside new stories yet to be told. So sit back, relax, and forget your worries. Transcend to a world where the soothing taste of tea, palate-pleasing portions and the company of good friends blend to delight your senses. Escape to Tea Roses … and enjoy.