5/15/14

HONORING THE STORY INN OF BROWN COUNTY, INDIANA

Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, Hoosier innovation and small business entrepreneurship help drive the economic engine of the state. Indiana small businesses are a source of pride for towns and cities across the state for the distinctly local, high quality goods and services they provide. One such small business is the Story Inn of Brown County. Located at "one inconvenient location since 1851,'' the Story Inn is a snapshot of Indiana's frontier past and melds modern convenience with a rugged atmosphere.

The Story Inn is a staple in southern Indiana with a unique history. The village of Story, Indiana was established through a land grant from President Millard Fillmore to Dr. George Story in 1851. The village grew to support a sizeable population and embodied the small-town Hoosier experience. When the Great Depression crippled the nation, citizens of Story left in droves to search for economic opportunity elsewhere. The small Indiana town never fully regained its pre-depression population, but the lack of development and construction after the economic collapse was a benefit in disguise. Story remained a vintage tribute to Indiana's frontier past, relatively untouched by the modern era, complete with wooden cabins, cattle barns, and an old-fashioned general store.

The general store was converted to a bed and breakfast in the 1980s by aspiring entrepreneurs. In 1998 the town of Story was purchased by Richard R Hofstetter and Frank Mueller. It is still owned by Mr. Hofstetter and today, the bed and breakfast occupies the entire village. A peaceful getaway nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County Indiana, the Story Inn caters to those who wish to revel in breathtaking sights, enjoy culinary delights, or escape the bustle of city life. Guests can relax in a variety of cozy rooms that have elements of modernity but seamlessly blend into the luscious forests that surround the Inn. Even Indianapolis radio personality Greg Garrison purchased a cabin that overlooks the town and is available to guests. ``The Garrison'' cabin is the epitome of Brown County style: the walls are paneled in pine and the balcony provides an expansive view of the Brown County wilderness.

Guests can enjoy authentic Hoosier cuisine at the Inn's restaurant which features delicacies like locally-raised pork and beef, garden-grown herbs, spices, and fresh local produce, all complimented by a crisp glass or two of fine wine. The Story Inn's commitment to elegant simplicity drives visitors from across the state to this quaint bed and breakfast.

The Story Inn of Brown County continues to offer excellent service with a local taste to any and all desiring a serene getaway. Whether one is embarking on a nature trail, wishing to sample local cuisine, yearning to enjoy the scenery, or just passing through for a visit, the Story Inn is an amazing getaway and a remarkable part of Indiana's history. I would like to thank the Story Inn for its cultural impact on the state, and most importantly, for continuing to exemplify the Hoosier spirit. I wish all involved--including the Blue Lady--continued success for many years to come!

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