The Golden Lamb, open since 1803, is Ohio’s oldest continually operating business. Many claim that it’s haunted as well. (Credit: HeritageOhio.org)

By Ken Drenten

The Golden Lamb has been a gathering place for travelers and community members in Lebanon since 1803. It can rightfully claim the title as Ohio’s oldest continually operating business.

The inn was founded by Jonas Seaman of New Jersey, who started his business on Broadway in the new village of Lebanon. His business offered food and lodging to travelers and got its name from the sign hung outside the business – an image of a golden lamb, used because many early travelers could not read.

Throughout its more than 220-year history, the Golden Lamb has hosted, entertained and provided lodging for many notable guests, including 12 U.S. presidents; political figures Barbara Bush, Mitt Romney, and Henry Clay; astronaut Neil Armstrong; authors Charles Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Alex Haley, James Whitcomb Riley, Louis Bromfield and Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain); actor Charles Laughton and singer Kesha.

The Golden Lamb’s many years in business have provided a rich heritage that is displayed throughout the restaurant and hotel rooms. A fourth-floor museum features the history of the tavern’s innkeepers and Shaker culture.

But there’s more than meets the eye at this historic inn. Food Network once named the Golden Lamb “Ohio’s most haunted restaurant.” Over the years, many guests and employees have reported paranormal activity during their time at the inn. Some say that the spirits of several famous people still occupy rooms of the restaurant and hotel.

Ghostly appearances have reportedly been made by the spirits of U.S. Congressman Clement Vallandingham (1820-1871) and Ohio Supreme Court Justice Charles R. Sherman (1788-1829), both of whom died in Golden Lamb rooms, and a mysterious little girl from the 19th century.

Learn more about historic taverns in Ohio in Dusty Tires.

The Golden Lamb is located at 27 S. Broadway, Lebanon (513) 932-5065.

Ken Drenten is creator and editor of Dusty-Tires.com, a travel blog for out-of-the-ordinary places in Ohio.

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