Old
Florence Hotel Guest House
Old Florence
Hotel Guest House
RR# 1 Box 1305
Pittsfield, IL 62363
website: www.florenceguesthoue.com
History
of the "Ole Brick"
Built in 1850,
the three story structure is the only brick building
in the town of Florence, Illinois. Overlooking the
beautiful Illinois River, locals still use the name
"Ole Brick" when referring to the stately
building. Legend has it that Abe Lincoln stayed
in this former hotel around 1858 while traveling
through Pike County when meeting people and engaging
in debates. Some believe his visits were many to
this hotel located between Winchester and Pittsfield.
Even though the current bridge (or any former bridge)
was not there in the mid 1850's, Florence was the
place where people crossed the Illinois River. Using
ferry boats to transport, it could take hours before
one could reach the other side. For many years the
"Ole Brick" sat dormant, waiting for the
second chance it so deserved. In July of 2002, the
building was bought and after months of decision
making, restoration of the building was begun in
January of 2003, with a completion date of summer,
2003. The Findley Hotel name was changed as the
building's new life began. Maybe it will stand for
another 153 years! The building will be available
for renters looking for a place to stay during their
time in the area. Hunters, boaters, vacationers,
jeepers, etc., are welcome to book time in the building
that was host to Abe Lincoln many years ago.
The newly remodeled
"Old Florence Hotel Guest House" has
three bedrooms, two private baths with showers,
living room/dining room, fully equipped kitchen,
back yard patio, outdoor charcoal grill, and is
located on two private lots. The breathtaking
view of the Illinois River from the main floor
back deck is of this three story building is one
you won't quickly forget!
Another two lots
compliment the hotel with direct access to the
beautiful Illinois River, in Pike County just
feet away from the free public boat ramp.
Camping, with limited space,
is also available on a first come basis. Self
contained campers are also welcome. Reservations
made at the Guest House ensure privacy, for only
one group per renting is our policy.
For more information or to make
reservations, call Nancy at
(217)723-4646. You can also visit our website
at www.florenceguesthouse.com.
Please Note: The "Old Florence Hotel Guest
House" wishes all a wonderful time while
staying with us, but we have a zero tolerance
policy for damage, destruction, theft, or disorderly
conduct. Your co-operation in this matter will
make your stay enjoyable and your future visits
with us possible.
Location: We are
in the Village of Florence, on Highway 100/106,
heading west just off the Florence Green lift
span bridge you go left at the first road which
is about 100 yards from the end of the bridge.
When you get to the stop sign, hang to the right.
The guest house is 4 buildings from the stop sign
on the left.
