Program

NYS Historic

Subject

Building, House

Location

2 S Main St, Jordan, NY 13080, USA

Lat/Long

43.065114018721, -76.47303755444

Grant Recipient

Friends of the Jordan Historical Society, Inc.

The Clinton House stands as one of Jordan’s most enduring landmarks, rooted in a community first settled by European immigrants beginning in 1797. As transportation networks expanded—first with the opening of the original Erie Canal in 1819, later followed by railroads and trolley lines—the village grew into a regional hub of travel and commerce.

In 1825, Horace Dodge purchased property at the corner of present‑day Clinton and Main Streets and soon built a brick structure that was functioning as a tavern by 1831. This was likely the same building as the Clinton House, but evidence is sparse. By 1852, the site was operated as a hotel serving canal, railroad, and stagecoach travelers. Over time it became known by several names, including the Clinton House, Hotel Clinton, Niles Hotel, Sweeney Hotel, Hotel Jordan, and Jordan Hotel.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Clinton House served as a vital social and civic center. It offered lodging for travelers and boarders, hosted political meetings, community dinners, fundraisers, concerts, plays, and public speeches, and even provided space for appointments with a visiting dentist. It was also a gathering place for balls and dances, parades, and real estate auctions. A horse‑drawn coach transported passengers to and from the hotel, and around 1876 a third story was added to accommodate growing activity.

The building evolved with the needs of the village. Its upper floors housed the proprietor, boarders, and visitors, while the first floor had several purposes including a bar, restaurant, beauty parlor, and eventually town offices. In 1890, a distinctive water fountain depicting Egeria—the Roman goddess of spring, rules, and law—was installed in front of the hotel. The fountain, which featured four basins at different levels to provide spring water to dogs, horses, and people, remained until its removal in 1929 due to deterioration.

The Clinton House saw a succession of proprietors, including David Carson (1850–1874), Richard Niles (from 1874), J. R. Hawley (by 1898), Thomas Mulrooney (1900-1913), and Price and Gertrude Campbell (1913-1916). Ownership changed hands several times thereafter.

Today, the historic structure continues to serve the community and is now home to two local businesses.