History
The roots of the Tidewater Inn trace back more than 300 years to 1712
When the Talbot County Courthouse moved to what is now Easton from Oxford, Maryland. At the time of the relocation, the town of Easton was comprised of a single tavern and four homes. These early homes provided lodging along with food and drink to patrons who were tending to business in the area. In 1786, a new town was officially authorized and named Talbot but only two years later changed to Easton.
In 1891, a new hotel was erected on the site of the present-day Tidewater Inn. It operated under several names, most notably the Avon Hotel until it was destroyed by a fire in 1944. The destruction of the Avon Hotel left Easton without a major hotel for several years.
In 1947, A. Johnson Grymes broke ground on the Tidewater Inn which still stands today. Due to postwar shortages of steel and plumbing, the Tidewater Inn took nearly two years to complete construction. On September 3, 1949, the Tidewater Inn opened its doors to 4,000 guests to celebrate the Grand Opening of a building that has shown to have equal significance to the town of Easton as the Talbot County Courthouse. In 1954, an addition on the north wing added an exquisite ballroom and additional guest rooms. During this time, the Tidewater Inn served as a gateway to the Eastern Shore as new automobile transportation routes increased the volume of visitors. "The Tidewater Inn has had the opportunity to host many of the great names in America – Elvis Presley, Elizabeth Taylor, Bing Crosby, The Kennedy’s and Robert Mitchum to name a few."
TALBOT SPY ARTICLE: The Tidewater Inn: History National Register of Historic Places
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS
Set amidst the charm of Easton Maryland, the Tidewater Inn proudly announces its 75th anniversary, marking a milestone of exceptional hospitality on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Originally known as the Hotel Avon in 1891, this establishment was Easton's hospitality cornerstone for over five decades until a fire devastated it in 1944. Following the blaze, local businessman Arthur Johnson Grymes embarked on constructing a state-of-the-art hotel. The grand unveiling on September 3, 1949, marked the rebirth of the Tidewater Inn, rapidly earning a reputation as one of the Mid-Atlantic Region's finest hotels.
Today, the Tidewater Inn features 86 renovated guest rooms and suites, Hunters’ Tavern, Terrasse Spa, and stunning event venues. The Tidewater Inn caters to a diverse clientele, from the modern bride to sophisticated business travelers and leisure guests seeking an authentic Eastern Shore experience. With less than a two-hour drive from major cities such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington, and Philadelphia, the Tidewater Inn is a sought-after destination for weddings, corporate retreats, and weekend getaways.
In 2009, the Tidewater Inn began an exciting new chapter under the ownership and management of John Wilson and Coastal South. With a vision of restoring the Tidewater Inn as the “Pride of the Eastern Shore”, an extensive renovation plan was initiated that took nearly 15 years to complete. This ambitious undertaking involved a total renovation of all guest rooms, lobby, ballrooms, restaurant, and kitchen, as well as updates to the windows and heating and air systems. During this period, the Tidewater Inn also expanded its offerings, acquiring The Inn at 202 Dover and introducing Terrasse Spa.
“Our 75th anniversary is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Tidewater Inn and our commitment to providing unparalleled guest experiences,” said Don Reedy, Director of Operations. “We are proud to continue the tradition of hospitality excellence that has defined the Tidewater Inn for three-quarters of a century.”
In addition to its signature experiences in the hotel, restaurant, and spa, the Tidewater Inn is renowned as a year-round wedding destination, offering a picturesque setting for couples. It was recently recognized as a 2024 “WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award recipient.
“The Tidewater Inn has become a cherished part of the Easton community, and we are honored to celebrate this milestone with our guests and neighbors,” said Lauren Catterton, Director of Sales. “Our recent renovations and ongoing enhancements reflect our commitment to providing an exceptional guest experience. We look forward to many more years of welcoming guests to the Tidewater Inn.”
As Tidewater Inn celebrates 75 years, it continues to embrace its historic roots while looking to a bright future. The Tidewater Inn’s legacy is one of warmth and elegance, making it a beloved destination for generations of guests.
OUR LEGACY
A. Johnson Grymes [ OWNER ]
Raymond Copper [ CHEF ]
John Wilson [ OWNER ]
