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The Sherman House is one of the oldest buildings
in Batesville and a significant landmark in
community history. Thanks to continued modernization,
this 150+ year old inn has evolved
gracefully from its origin as a coaching tavern
to the unique and popular hostelry it is today.
The pages of history have not recorded
all the events of the past, but it is known that
the hotel opened its door to guests on November
9, 1852. During many changes in ownership
in the early years, someone renamed the
hotel in honor of General Sherman's great
contributions to victory in the Civil War. Later
owners retained the name and added historical
significance by collecting the priceless prints
of that era that hang in the lounge.
The contemporary history began in
1923 when Hillenbrand Industries purchased
the building. Within the next decade four additional
buildings were added to the property.
The architect retained most of the original timber
frame of yellow poplar girders, 30 inches
by 90 feet, which were in perfect condition after
80 years. They are still in place. In 1953
there was another complete renovation, and the
Old Vienna Café was created from designs and
sketches made in European cafes. Hoosier artist
Harold Hancock rendered the sketches into
murals.
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