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History of the Big Moose Inn 1903-2023 (lost in a fire on May 27th, 2023)

Perched on the picturesque shores of Big Moose Lake the Big Moose Inn had a legacy woven into the very fabric of the Adirondacks. Built in 1903 for George Burdick at a modest cost of $1,100 by E.J. Martin (who also founded the Waldheim), the inn began its journey as “Burdick’s Camp”. Burdick, a charismatic and eccentric Adirondack guide, found success that allowed him to expand the inn in 1915. After his passing, Leonard Waterman acquired the property, rebranding it as “Waterman’s Camp”.

In 1946, Dorothy and William Ebel became the ins new stewards, renaming it the Big Moose Hotel. During their tenure, the inn thrived as a cozy wilderness escape. From 1954 to 1957, Ralph E. Hutchins operated the property, with Hank Herschy serving as chef. Herschy, in a nostalgic visit 52 years later, shared a glimpse of the inn’s mid-20th-century charm through a menu boasting 20-cent peanut butter sandwiches and beers for just 35 cents. It was a time of simple pleasures and modern conveniences like electricity, running water, and steam heat.

Like many grand Adirondack inns, the Big Moose Inn faced its share of challenges. In 1957, it was sold at auction to Frank Newman, who entrusted Barney and Betty Barnum with its management. Well-loved members of the Big Moose community, the Barnums eventually purchased the inn, operating it for 11 years before selling it in the late 1960s to the Bennett family. For over 35 years, the Bennetts nurtured the inn’s reputation for fine dining and unforgettable stays, even expanding the dining room in the 1990s to cater to its growing popularity.

The legacy continued under Robert Hankey, who acquired the property in 2005, and later, Mark and Susan Mayer. The Mayers, with over 30 years of hospitality expertise, became owners in 2010. They poured their hearts into preserving the inn’s rustic charm and welcoming spirit, even completing extensive renovations to enhance its beauty and comfort. The Mayers’ dedication made the inn a haven for guests seeking Adirondack serenity.

The Fire of May 27, 2023

A tragic chapter unfolded in the early hours of May 27, 2023, when the Big Moose Inn was lost to a devastating fire. Flames broke out in the rear pantry area around 2:45 a.m. Mark and Susan Mayer, residing nearby, spotted the fire and quickly evacuated all guests, ensuring everyone’s safety. Despite the heroic efforts of seven fire departments, the inn could not be saved, marking a heartbreaking end to its 120-year history.

A New Beginning

In the aftermath of the fire, Mark and Susan Mayer began reimagining the future of the cherished property. Recognizing the enduring beauty of Big Moose Lake, they pivoted toward creating a serene lakefront retreat. The new vision includes eight thoughtfully designed rental cabins: five one-bedroom units and three two-bedroom units. These year-round accommodations will combine modern comforts—such as heating, air conditioning, high-speed internet, and fully equipped kitchens—with the rustic charm that defines Adirondack living. Every cabin will offer unobstructed views of the lake, inviting guests to immerse themselves in nature.

With construction underway, the Mayers remain committed to honoring the spirit of the Big Moose Inn. Their goal is to preserve its legacy as a place where families and friends create lasting memories, ensuring that the property continues to hold a special place in the hearts of all who visit.

Big Moose Lake and Its Legacy

Big Moose Lake, known for its serene beauty and remote allure, also carries a touch of intrigue. The lake served as the backdrop for the infamous 1906 murder of Grace Brown by Chester Gillette, a tragedy that inspired Theodore Dreiser’s critically acclaimed novel “An American Tragedy”. Chester Gillette’s diary, uncovered years later and donated to Hamilton College, reignited interest in the tale, keeping this storied lake forever etched in history.