WHAT CHEER HALL BED & BREAKFAST
7482 Main Street, P.O. Box 417
Newport, New York 13416
315-845-8312 E-MAIL jimmer4@gmail.com
The primary significance of What Cheer Hall is derived from the historical and architectural importance of its role in the establishment of an early 19th century village in central New York State. The building was built for the founder of Newport (originally called Bowen settlement) Benjamin Bowen and his wife, Ruth Watson Bowen in 1812. The home is listed on the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places.This historic home is the oldest remaining structure that has not been moved or incorporated into a larger structure still standing in the village of Newport. It is surrounded by homes that were built later in the 19th century when New England pioneers moved into the Kuyahoora Valley area beginning in 1787.In 1793 Bowen built a dam and a sawmill on the West Canada Creek and a year later a gristmill was constructed, later a distillery and an oil mill, and finally the Newport Cotton Manufacturing Company. The Village of Newport is located in the Kuyahoora Valley of Herkimer County. The West Canada Creek bisects the village nestled southwest of the Adirondack Park and northeast of the City of Utica. The small village and surrounding open country render a fine mix for country living in close proximity to recreational possibilities, including our local golf course, and city shopping, the arts, and fine dining.The Bowen family named the house "What Cheer Hall". This was a favorite expression of Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, when he showed forth his enthusiasm. "What cheer!!" is heard to best advantage when roared by Richard Burton in Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew".
- Well-mannered children welcome.
- Smoking limited to enclosed porch.
- Bed and private bath accommodations to serve the traveler at modest rates.
- Open all year.
- No pets.
- Cat in residence.
- Rates from $40 to $70 per night plus tax according to guest's choices.
- Resident Hosts: Phyllis and Jim Fisher
