Our History

Built in 1797, by Zenas Graham for his new bride, Abigail, the home eventually housed the couple and their twelve children. The Graham family retained ownership of the homestead until the 1940’s.       In the Early 1800’s the house first opened as an Inn. Mary Lyon taught her Winter School for Young Ladies here from 1830-32. In 1837 Ms. Lyon founded Mt Holyoke College.       The house opened its doors to travelers again in the 1920’s as the Wayside Inn. During the 1980’s Janet Turley opened the home as the 1797 House B&B.

      In keeping with the historical traditions of the homestead we would now like to welcome you to our Bird’s Nest.

      Named in honor of Edith Dolby nee Bird, the family matriarch, the Bird’s Nest is filled with quilts, weavings, rugs, clayware, furniture, sculpture and paintings created by a family of artists and artisans. As well, we have filled our home with family heirlooms, antiques and collectables.