JOHNSTOWN — A Festival of Wreaths will be held on Saturday at the James Burk Inn by the Johnstown Historical Society. All proceeds will benefit the group’s efforts to restore local landmarks, including the historic inn.
The colonial-themed event will have a selection of unique wreaths for sale during the open house which takes place 5 to 8 p.m. at the inn, located at 200 S. William St.
According to Noel Levee, city historian, the inn is believed to be one of the first 10 houses built by Sir William Johnson, built circa 1765 on lot 5 S. William St. for Robert Picken, Sir William’s surveyor. It was moved in 1788 to James Burk’s lot to make room for Vaumann De Fon Clair’s first tavern.
After it was moved, Burk added the smokers’ benches on the front porch, a well, and a lean-to in the rear, used as lodging for the teamsters who ran supplies to Johnstown.
James Burk’s Inn was purchased in 1813 by Isaiah Younglove, a boot maker. He used the lean-to section for his shop. Later when Miss Susanna Younglove lived in the building, she maintained a gift shop and gave art lessons. The Johnstown Chapter NS Daughters of the American Revolution purchased the property in 1925 but allowed Younglove to remain until her death in 1935.
The Johnstown Historical Society purchased the Burk Inn several years ago and has replaced the roof, removed a large tree, and repaired the front porch. Future projects include exterior painting and renovating the interior to look like the Burk Inn of the late 18th- and early 19th century.
Anyone interested in donating a wreath or becoming a sponsor for the Festival of Wreaths should send an email to [email protected] or call Helen Martin at (518) 762-7638.
Tickets for the event are available at Mysteries on Main Street or at the door.
If you go…
James Burk Inn is located at 200 S. William St., Johnstown.
The event is Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m.
Tickets available at Mysteries on Main Street or at the door.
Call (518) 762-7638 for more information.
