The Pearson Hotel Building
A community hub since the turn of the century
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Originally constructed in 1876 by L. A. Pearson, The Pearson Hotel was strategically located along the traction line, a key transportation route of the time. This two-story brick building was designed to accommodate travelers and served as a central hub in the community, with a service lobby, dining room, barbershop, billiards room, and 15 upstairs guest rooms.
The hotel burned down in 1902, but was quickly reconstructed in 1903 as The New Pearson Hotel. The hotel's establishment marked a period of growth for West Milton, which had a population of 1,209 in 1910. The town's elevated location, 128 feet above Dayton, and its pure water supply, sourced from eleven springs, contributed to its appeal.
In the mid-20th century, the Pearson Building transitioned from a hotel to a restaurant and retail space. Starting in 1957, the old hotel billiards room notably housed Kroplin Jewelers for 68 years.Â
The Pearson House Restaurant occupied the remaining downstairs rooms starting in 1983, serving 773,000 slices of pie to its dining guests.
Throughout these transitions, careful care has been taken to maintain the building's historical charm while serving the community. The building's rich, resilient history and preservation efforts highlight its importance in the Village of West Milton's heritage.
As the original building approaches 150 years of serving the community, the space has been reimagined once more to become a central hub of social activity and commerce, reinvigorating our beautiful Downtown. The ribbon cutting ceremony for 28 Marketplace was held on a warm and sunny fall day, on October 18th, 2025.
We would love to build the next chapter with you!
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