In 1799, the Holland Land Company offered lots 10 miles apart in what is now Clarence to "any proper man who would build and operate a tavern upon it". A young silversmith named Asa Ransom, had been plying his trade in the little fur trading post on the shores of Lake Erie. He was among the first to accept this opportunity and in the hollow of the ledge, near a pine grove, built a log home and tavern. In 1803, he built a grist mill, the first in Erie County. The original structure, which dates back to 1853, houses the library, gift shop, and snug. Our dining rooms were added in 1975 with careful concern to keep the charm of the 19th century. The South wing, completed in 1993, overlook the rear gardens and pond. The ruins of the grist mill are at the rear of the property.