Sherman House Restaurant Won't Reopen

By Mike Perleberg

The Sherman House Restaurant & Inn in Batesville will not reopen after a two-week closure. (Batesville, Ind.) – A restaurant that has been serving up Old World German and American cuisine to Batesville residents and travelers since 1865 will soon shut its doors. An announcement was posted on The Sherman House Restaurant & Inn’s Facebook page Tuesday stating that the restaurant will not re-open as previously planned on January 20. The establishment had announced it will be closed January 5-19 for cleaning and maintenance. “It was a very difficult decision made by owner Doug Bessler,” the post read. Bessler had purchased the historic restaurant about 10 years ago. The message also thanks the restaurant’s dedicated customers and employees. The restaurant’s fate is not sealed, however. Bessler is continuing to work with the City of Batesville and local real estate agents in an effort to find a new owner in hopes that it will someday re-open. The building – which includes the restaurant and 23 guest rooms – is one of the oldest in Batesville, according to the business’ website. John F. Brinkman first opened the inn on November 9, 1865, with it first being known as The Brinkman House. Over various changes in ownership and management, it was renamed The Sherman House in recognition of Civil War Union General William T. Sherman. The Sherman House Restaurant & Inn won the Hoosier Hospitality Award in 2008.  

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