The Rich History of Eagle Mountain House
Eagle Mountain House, a historic treasure nestled in the heart of Jackson, New Hampshire, has been a beacon of hospitality and charm since it first opened its doors in 1879. Steeped in rich history, our iconic property remains one of the few remaining Grand Hotels in the White Mountains, offering an authentic experience for guests seeking both luxury and adventure in an unforgettable setting.
Explore below and discover the journey that transformed us into the beloved boutique hotel we are today.
Discover the Legacy of One of New Hampshire's Iconic Grand Hotels
THE BEGINNINGS OF EAGLE MOUNTAIN HOUSE
The Original Eagle Mountain House
In 1879, a New England farmhouse accommodating 12 guests, opened. The Cyrus and Marcia Gale family operated the Inn and working farm, which produced much of the food enjoyed by the guests. The lower pasture was for farming, grazing animals, and producing hay.
Golf Arrives at the Eagle
Late in the 1900’s a “few” holes of golf were created to keep the Inn competitive with other Jackson hotels. This new sport had arrived from Scotland and was the latest rage!
Expanding the Footprint
The Inn was then expanded to two buildings, accommodating up to 125 guests. Similar to today, the spectacular views, rural surroundings, and the fresh air of the mountains drew guests.
The Barn & Carriage House
The barn, original to this period, included a Carriage House. This space originally housed horses and carriages, eventually being adapted for use as a garage for automobiles. Today, this is now a sought-after event space with stunning indoor/outdoor options.
Fire Strikes The Eagle
In 1915, the Main Inn was destroyed by fire.
A Timeless Retreat in the Heart of the White Mountains
OVER A CENTURY OF CHARM AND HOSPITALITY
The Eagle is Rebuilt
Less than a year after the first, the present Eagle Mountain House was rebuilt and opened in 1916. The Inn boasted a veranda, and 75 guest rooms, most of which had private baths. The originally hydro-electric elevator and main switch board located behind the front desk date from this period.
Capturing our Grand Hotel
World famous photographer Clifton Church documented many scents around the original hotel and stayed on as a guest even after the 1915 fire. The Eagle Mountain House was one of the few hotels that had a darkroom which enabled Church to process his photographs. There are many original Church photographs on display throughout the hotel lobby and tavern. FUN FACT – Church also donated the “Jackson” sign that hangs on the famous covered bridge at the entrance to the village.
Passing Ownership
In 1923 Cyrus Gale died and operation of the Eagle Mountain House was assumed by his son, Arthur.
Golf Comes Front & Center
In 1931, the Great Depression consumed America and Eagle Mountain House was not immune. Arthur Gale converted the farmland and cow pasture in the front of the hotel into the Eagle Mountain House Golf Course. The original 9-hole course remains today and is often viewed as one of the most scenic USGA rated courses in New England. Three of the tees are adjacent to the nationally protected Wildcat River. In the winter months, the course is part of the #1 rated cross country ski areas in the North East.
Skiing at The Eagle
In 1936 ski-meister Beno Rybicki conducted the first organized skiing in the Mt. Washington Valley on the 9th fairway of the Eagle Mountain House Golf Course.
Preserving the Legacy for Future Generations
CONTINUING THE TRADITION OF EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
The Eagle is Rebuilt
Less than a year after the first, the present Eagle Mountain House was rebuilt and opened in 1916. The Inn boasted a veranda, and 75 guest rooms, most of which had private baths. The originally hydro-electric elevator and main switch board located behind the front desk date from this period.
Capturing our Grand Hotel
World famous photographer Clifton Church documented many scents around the original hotel and stayed on as a guest even after the 1915 fire. The Eagle Mountain House was one of the few hotels that had a darkroom which enabled Church to process his photographs. There are many original Church photographs on display throughout the hotel lobby and tavern. FUN FACT – Church also donated the “Jackson” sign that hangs on the famous covered bridge at the entrance to the village.
Passing Ownership
In 1923 Cyrus Gale died and operation of the Eagle Mountain House was assumed by his son, Arthur.
Golf Comes Front & Center
In 1931, the Great Depression consumed America and Eagle Mountain House was not immune. Arthur Gale converted the farmland and cow pasture in the front of the hotel into the Eagle Mountain House Golf Course. The original 9-hole course remains today and is often viewed as one of the most scenic USGA rated courses in New England. Three of the tees are adjacent to the nationally protected Wildcat River. In the winter months, the course is part of the #1 rated cross country ski areas in the North East.
Skiing at The Eagle
In 1936 ski-meister Beno Rybicki conducted the first organized skiing in the Mt. Washington Valley on the 9th fairway of the Eagle Mountain House Golf Course.
