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 accommodated 12 guests at a time. The Cyrus and Marcia Gale family with their children 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 1800’s three holes of golf were created to keep the Inn competitive with other Jackson hotels. This new sport had arrived in Scotland and was the latest rage!
In 1931, an 18-hole and 9-hole course were added to the property. The larger course was part of a later land sale, but the 9-hole course remains as a beloved part of our hotel today.
Expanding the Footprint
In 1890 the hotel was expanded with Eagle Hall and could accommodate 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, originally housed horses and carriages. 1910 The Carriage House was built eventually being adapted for use as a garage for automobiles. Today, this is now a sought-after event space with stunning indoor/outdoor options with great views.
Fire Strikes The Eagle
In 1915, The original Eagle Mountain House 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 property burned down, the present Eagle Mountain House was rebuilt and opened on July 4th, 1916. The Inn boasted a veranda, and 75 guest rooms, most of which had private baths. The original hydro-electric elevator, which was added in 1926 and main switchboard, original to 1916 are still on display at the hotel. The Eagle Mountain House also boasts the first hotel in the state of NH to have a comprehensive fire suppression system installed throughout the building that is still in-use today.
Capturing our Grand Hotel
World-famous photographer Clifton Church documented many scenes around the original hotel and stayed on as a guest even after the 1915 fire. The Eagle Mountain House once rebuilt, 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. Also, the original Eagle Mountain House Sign is displayed in the tavern.
Passing Ownership
After the fire in 1915, Cyrus Gale was not of good health and decided to sell the land to his son Arthur. He spent much time working in the existing hotel, and his knowledge of hospitality made the sale a perfect transition. The current hotel opened on July 4, 1916.
Golf Comes Front & Center
In 1931, the Great Depression was consuming America, and the 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 tee boxes are adjacent to the nationally protected Wildcat River. During the winter months, the course is part of the #1 rated cross country ski areas in the Northeast.
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.
