History & Philosophy

The Story Behind the Style

The Settlers Inn, built in 1927, stands as a fine example of English Arts and Crafts design.  Native bluestone and chestnut woods are the foundation of the Inn’s massive structure.  The building was built by the community shortly after Lake Wallenpaupack, a man-made lake with a 52-mile shoreline, was created in 1925.  The forward-thinking Chamber of Commerce rightfully believed that tourism would come and they wanted to be prepared with the finest hotel for miles around.  They succeeded in building the hotel that originally had 54 rooms.  Unfortunately, the Great Depression and World War II kept the building from opening until 1944.  After a series of different owners and incarnations, the Genzlinger family and friends purchased the property in 1980.  It continues to be a labor of love.

Throughout every aspect of The Settlers Inn experience, Founders Jeanne and Grant Genzlinger infuse the true spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement, a philosophy which emerged in the 1860s in England in reaction to the heavy ornamentation and industrialization of the high Victorian era.

“The head had been separated from the hand during the industrial revolution,” argued early proponents of the Arts and Crafts movement, such as William Morris and John Roskin.

“We are very ‘hands-on’ in our approach to hospitality,” says Jeanne.

Homage to Arts & Crafts

From The Inn’s farm-to-table menus highlighting quality products of local farms and purveyors, to the beautiful and useful furnishings in its guest rooms and gathering spaces, Jeanne and Grant have given homage to the movement that has inspired their work.

“For many years Grant was our Executive Chef, and he loved the connection of the farm and garden to the kitchen,” says Jeanne. “He enjoyed planning The Inn’s gardens and is passionate about working with our region’s local farmers to bring healthy and delicious meals to our guests.”

“Jeanne finds the same creative outlet in searching for the antiques, as well as current items that adorn The Inn and The Potting Shed,” says Grant. “She selects chestnut and cherry woods from our native forests, hand-screened Bradbury and Bradbury wallpapers, hand-made Fulper tiles, and artwork that support the style.”

Jeanne and Grant, and now their son Justin, remain true to their mission, “to create a handcrafted and memorable hospitality experience for each guest.”