For
over a century The Fullerton Inn has remained a cornerstone and focal
point in historic Chester, Vermont. Though the hands of time have
changed the facility and its ownership, The Fullerton still delivers
the same excellent quality of service envisioned since the pre-civil
war times.
The present owners, Bret and Nancy Rugg purchased
the Fullerton Inn in June 2003 and are actively involved in the day to
day operation of the Inn, as well as the restaurant. The Ruggs are
transplants from Richmond, Indiana. While new to the hospitality
industry, the Ruggs bring their own special touches to the beautiful
Fullerton Inn. The Ruggs continue the tradition of quality service,
fine dining and exceptional presentation that visitors to the Fullerton
have come to expect.
The name "Fullerton Inn" is a
resurrection of the historical name for the inn. The original inn,
located on this site, was built in the 1840's and called the "Ingraham
House." A fire destroyed the structure in the 1880's and the inn built
on the existing foundation was called the "Fullerton Inn". The
Fullerton family owned many properties and businesses in Chester. In
the 1950's the owners changed the name to the "Chester Inn" and many
who visit us today still remember the inn by that name. In the early
1980's the inn was closed for a short time. A college professor named
Jack Coleman bought the inn in 1984 and renamed it "The Inn at Long
Last" to represent the fulfillment of his dream to own an inn.
Jack
filled the tavern area with bookshelves and the lobby was full of his
collection of tin soldiers. Each week we get several people who
reminesse about "The Inn at Long Last" and Jack Coleman's hospitality.
In 1998 the inn was sold to the operators of the local "Ye Olde
Bradford Tavern" (a few doors down from the inn.) They merged the
Bradford Tavern with the Inn and returned the "Fullerton Inn" name to
the sign board.
Extensive upgrades to the property have
taken place over the years. Particular attention has gone into creating
comfortable rooms for guests. The Fullerton Inn has taken on a
different look than in past years, but still maintains the warmth,
comfort and professional service of days gone by.
Update: October 2012 - We are rapidly approaching our ten-year anniversary here at the Fullerton Inn. We have had many adventures here in Chester. Lots of weddings, reunions, business meetings, and red hats. It's been a pleasure meeting you all. We have met many people who have stories about the Fullerton Inn (or the Chester Inn or the Inn at Long Last.) We've met people who remember the ballroom that was upstairs. They actually had been to a function there just after World War II. We've met many people who remember the bank and several who had worked there. Many people mention the second bank in the space that is our current conference room. Several mention the Post Office having been here. Some have verified that my office was once a hair salon. And we even have met some who remember the "locals bar" that was in the basement. All in all it goes to show that the Fullerton Inn has alway been a very important part of the life of Chester, Vermont. We are doing all we can to try to keep that tradition going. We host Santa Claus each year during the "Overture to Christmas", and we host the Rotary Club of Chester each Thursday morning. We try to be a part of the ongoing sucess of Chester. We appreciate all that have come to visit us and , of course, all of those who will come to visit us . . . soon! See you in Chester!


