The Wack Tavern built in 1836 afforded accommodations for man and beast. The courtyard frequently harbored a score or more of teams for the night. Travelers moving Westward from Pennsylvania and New England forgot their weariness at this tavern in the merriment of singing dancing, drinking, and of course story telling. Even during the quiet winter months lonely settlers came here to solace themselves with noisy gaiety.
The first owners of the tavern was John and Jemima Wack. John purchased the hotel in 1879. It was operated by various Wack Family members until 1938 when it then became a private residence.
Through the years, it served as an overnight stop for travelers. Meals were served and an ice cream parlor was operated for the community.
Only methods of transportation changed that brought guests to the house – trains, stage coach and cars brought the last tourists.
The hotel consisted originally of 12 large rooms. Two large rooms on the second floor opened up into one very large room for parties and dances.
Following the deaths of John and Jemima Wack. the hotel was passed down to sons George and Harvey Wack. And when the Wack Brothers died, it was passed onto Cora Wack, widow of a third son, Charles Wack and her children Alice and Floyd.
Source: Osnaburg Twp. History
1804 – 1976
Osnaburg Historical Society 