F L A U N T
Certain hotels are more than just luxury establishments or comfort homes; some, like the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn, are historical landmarks. Established in 1766, this hotel has existed for over 250 years, earning a place in the Historic Hotels of America, an official National Trust for Historic Preservation program.
While the U.S. is home to many historic hotels, what makes The Beekman Arms Inn truly special is its claim as America's oldest continuously operated hotel. This means it has run consistently as a hotel, inn, or lodging establishment without interruption since it first opened.
In this article, we will take a close look at this iconic hotel, examining its history, design, evolution over the years, and what it looks like today. But while you are here, you can visit this website anytime to bet on your favorite sports event.
The history of The Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn dates back to the early 1700s when William Traphagen established a traveler's inn called the Traphagen Tavern in the heart of Rhinebeck, New York. Years later, in 1766, his grandson, Arent Traphagen, relocated the Tavern to its current location. It was then named in honor of the Beekman family, who were prominent landowners in the Hudson Valley at the time.
Back then, the inn was a vital stop for travelers along the King's Highway. It was perfectly positioned near the road, providing weary visitors with food and shelter. It also served as a stagehouse for stagecoaches, with stables where horses could be swapped out for fresh ones.
Following the passing of Arent Traphagen in 1769, the Tavern found a new owner. Everardus Bogardus, the great-grandson of the esteemed New Netherlands dominie, bought the Tavern. During this period, the Tavern became more than just a place for food and lodging; it evolved into a center of political discussion, commerce, and military activity.
Given its strategic location along the King's Highway, it frequently hosted notable figures of the time, including revolutionaries and traders, alongside the usual tired travelers seeking rest from their journeys. Prominent leaders of the American Revolution, like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, reportedly lodged in the Tavern at the time.
Over the years, the Beekman Arms Inn has changed ownership multiple times, from Captain Jacques to Tracy Dows, who renovated the inn extensively, to Charles LaForge Jr. in the 1980s. Today, The Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn are owned and operated by The Beekman Arms Corporation, which remains dedicated to maintaining the inn's historic character while providing guests with a comfortable and authentic experience.
The architectural design of The Beekman Arms reflects its colonial origins and historical significance. Originally built with sturdy timber and stone, it was designed to withstand potential Native American attacks at the time.
The hotel has been renovated and expanded over the years but has maintained its colonial charm and historical authenticity. One of its first expansions was in 1766 when The Beekman Arms was added to the original Traphagen Tavern. Since then, so many updates have been added over the years.
Notably, in 1918, when Tracy Dows oversaw the hotel, he added a ballroom, which enlarged the inn's capacity for events and social gatherings. In the 1980s, Charles LaForge introduced a greenhouse at the front of the ballroom and expanded the property by incorporating the Delamater Inn, which he built in a Gothic Revival style. He also constructed the Courtyard Complex behind it to accommodate more guests.
The Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn remains a treasured landmark in the heart of Rhinebeck, New York. The hotel currently houses 80 rooms spread across several historic buildings. Each room has a private bath, air conditioning, and a welcoming decanter of sherry. Some rooms feature cozy fireplaces to enhance the old-world ambiance. Guests can also use the hotel's on-site and in-room spa services.
At the heart of the inn is The Tavern at the Beekman Arms, a warm and inviting restaurant that gives diners the colonial feel with its exposed wooden beams, open-hearth fireplace, and classic Colonial Tap Room. The hotel also has an antique aircraft museum, which features over 50 antique aircraft and over 40 vintage vehicles from 1900-1940.
From its origins as Traphagen Tavern in the early 1700s, the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn has stood the test of time, retaining its colonial charm while embracing modern comforts. Whether you're a lover of history or a fan of classic architecture, the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn promises an amazing experience and a cozy and comfortable stay.
Stay up-to-date with exclusive events and content.
