The Temperance House

The tradition of "The Temperance House" began in 1772, when soldier and scholar Andrew McMinn first opened the Inn. Union General Francis Murray made the Inn his lodging during the Revolutionary times, and the site became a gathering spot for those fighting for the colonists' cause. Following General Murray's tenure, Jolly and Mercy Yardley Longshore made post-Revolutionary days eventful at the Inn, until stagecoach driver, borough constable, and auctioneer Chillion W. Higgs became the proprietor.

During the 1840s, when the Bucks County Temperance Society was a powerful force in Newtown, Higgs named the hotel "The Sign of the Good Samaritan" and served only mineral water, mead, ginger pop, and lemonade; a far cry from today's full-service restaurant and bar.

Innkeeper William R. Hallowell renamed the hostelry "The Temperance Hotel" in 1848, and the Inn billed itself in the local journal as supplying ice cream "of a richness and flavor" that couldn't be exceeded. A new, double-faced oval sign painted by famous primitive artist Edward Hicks gave proprietor Joseph Willard the impetus for another name change in 1865. The name, "The Niagara Temperance House," nicely complimented Hicks' sign depicting a moose standing by Niagara Falls.

Hicks' tavern sign was lost over the years, but Hicks' talent and influence has enjoyed a renaissance in international art circles. The Temperance House honors his artistic contribution, most especially to Newtown's colorful heritage.

Sam Willard, who bought the business from his brother Joseph, made his mark on the hostelry's name by calling it "The Temperance Hotel Oyster and Ice Cream Bar." The name was reduced by common usage over the years to simply "The Temperance House" and then to "The Temp," and throughout the 1800s, the hotel remained a popular place to enjoy oysters and ice cream.

A number of innkeepers followed with grander plans for the South State Street hostelry - renovations became customary and over the years names like Benetz, Leedom, Burns, and Fabian became associated with the comfortable and convenient meeting place.

While a complete refurbishment has taken place since then, current owners Carlene and Pasquale Deon have made a special effort to ensure that The Temperance House retains its historical charm. We hope you agree!