Text Box: The original brick house, which is the core of the present structure known as "The Willard," was built in 1860 by William and Cynthia King McCaslin. Mrs. McCaslin was the daughter of George King, who had received the original 160 acres in a land grant on October 17, 1822. Mrs. McCaslin died in 1878 and William married Marguerite Mullen. Text Box: After William's death in 1883, Marguerite and her niece, Marguerite McCullough, resided in the home until 1922 when it was sold to Eliza Patterson Willard and her niece and nephew, Mr. & Mrs. Will Judah. Mrs. Willard and the Judah's paid $11,000 for the original building and spent a great deal more constructing the hotel around the brick house and remodeling the interior. From that time on it was known as The Willard Hotel. Ironically, both Mrs. Willard and Mrs. Judah were active in the Prohibition Movement. After sitting idle for several years, The Willard was purchased and refurbished by John Limp and John Wright of Franklin, as a pub and eatery, specializing in pizza, hot wings and the friendly environment so many people enjoy today. The main theme in the restoration of The Willard was restoring the building without detracting from the antique fixtures and the historical charm. The curved staircase in the foyer and the marble fireplace mantle in the main dining area are part of the original McCaslin home. In 1990, The Willard was sold to the present owner, Bob Schofield and his partner, the late Don Henry. Bob and his wife Alexa have maintained the same commitment to good food, good drinks and the place "where friends meet."

Chris Chambers Photography

Chris Chambers Photography

Bar: 317-738-9668

Carry Out: 317-738-9991

 

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