“Kept on trucking ... slowly but surely made progress.”
- Kevin Hilliker
Imagine yourself whisked away to a simpler era, where horse-drawn carriages clatter down cobblestone streets and trains whistle through the countryside. Push open the welcoming doors of The Tamworth Hotel, and that's exactly where you'll find yourself – in spirit, at least.
Built around 1840, The Tamworth Hotel has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Once a dimly lit tavern, it now radiates warmth and charm, casting a friendly glow over Lexington and Addington County. While preserving its historic soul, the hotel embraces the present needs of the community, offering a haven for travelers, a vibrant hub for locals to connect, as well as jobs for the local economy.
This heartwarming story began when Kevin Hilliker, a former Canada Post employee with an artistic heart, and Carol Brown, his partner and fellow artist decided to buy the building. Drawn to the potential slumbering within the hotel's weathered walls, they embarked on a journey to restore its former glory. Their vision? To blend the elegance of a bygone era with the comforts of modern life.
Their dedication is evident in every detail. With tireless effort, they tackled the daunting task of rewiring, plumbing, and insulating the building. The result was the charming Black Cat Café, a cozy spot where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy Carol's delicious homemade meals. From the legendary pizza nights that fed the community during the pandemic to the best cup of coffee in town, the Black Cat Café is more than just a restaurant – it's a wellspring of warmth and connection.
Challenges inevitably arose, but Kevin and Carol weren't alone. Community Futures stepped in, offering invaluable guidance and directing them towards applying for a grant. This crucial support proved to be a lifeline; not only did they qualify and get the funding, it enabled them to continue working on their dream and stay committed to their sizable investment in renovations.
Today, the hotel exudes a timeless elegance. Original layout, vintage furnishings, and local antiques create an authentic ambiance, while modern amenities like electric baseboards, air conditioning, and electronic door locks ensure a comfortable stay in one of their four beautifully appointed rooms, now available seven nights a week. Hear that? It’s the beautifully restored player piano that adds the perfect touch of nostalgia, making the hotel feel like a living museum.
But the Tamworth Hotel is more than just a step back in time. It's a vibrant hub for the community. Carol's culinary artistry draws loyal crowds, while the hotel's 17 part-time employees contribute to the local economy. Step inside, and you'll find a place where locals gather to swap stories, everyone is welcome, and a sense of community thrives. With unwavering dedication and the support of Community Futures, Kevin and Carol continue to breathe new life and economic impact into a historic landmark.
If you have a project or business that could benefit from a no-charge strategic consultation, please reach out to team@communityfutures.co today.
