Early Roots

Mid 1800s The Inn at Lost River sits on land originally owned by William “Billy” Harper, one of the Lost River Valley’s early settlers. Harper’s gristmill and general store served as both a commercial and social hub laying the foundation for a place defined by gathering, connection, and community.

A Home Takes Shape

Circa 1884 In the late 1880s, James Garrett purchased the Harper Grist Mill and a portion of the surrounding property. Along with his son, Ferg, he built the wood-frame, lath-and-plaster home that would later become the Inn. While the gristmill itself no longer stands, the spirit of the property as a central meeting place endures.

The General Store Era

1898 The Lost River General Store, originally known as the Lost River Store House, was built on Harper’s land and would go on to serve the valley for more than 125 years. Later owned and operated by the Haas family for nearly seven decades, the store functioned as a mercantile, post office, and gathering place, with generations living in rooms above the shop. From fabric and dry goods to hardware, whiskey, caskets, and famous bologna sandwiches, the store evolved with the needs of the community.

Change and Progress

Early–Mid 1900s As automobiles replaced wagons, gas pumps replaced hitching posts on what is now the Inn and General Store property. The 1930s brought improvements led by the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration, including the paving of what is now Route 259, development of Lost River State Park, and the construction of a “modern” WPA outhouse on the property still standing today as a playful reminder of the valley’s mountain roots.

Restoration and Renewal

Mid-1990s A thoughtful restoration of the historic property began, guided by respect for the craftsmanship and care that shaped it. Layers of time were gently peeled back—fourteen coats of paint removed to reveal a beautifully hand-carved walnut banister, and original soft pine floors, milled from nearby forests more than 140 years ago, carefully preserved. The work honored what had always been here while preparing the Inn and General Store to welcome new stories for generations to come.

The Story Continues

Today, the Inn at Lost River and the Lost River General Store remain living places shaped by those who came before and enriched by those who pass through. The Inn welcomes guests from around the world with warmth, comfort, and Appalachian hospitality, while the General Store café continues its long tradition as a place to gather.  Each stay, conversation, meal, and moment adds to a history still being written. We invite you to slow down, settle in, and become part of the story. Come write your chapter.