History

Built as a home in the guided age of the early 1900’s, the property followed the fate of the region and the economics of the times. The mansion became an Inn during the heyday of the Catskill Mountains (1940’s-1960’s) when waves of New York City’s new immigrants summered in the near-by mountains that reminded them of home. At the time, the Village of Fleischmanns was known to have upwards of 10,000 visitors frequenting its many cafes, hotels and first-run 600-seat Maxbilt movie theater. When the next generation were lured to other destinations by the burgeoning airline industry, tourism in the Catskill Region began to decline.  Particularly hard hit were the small villages, like Fleischmanns.  When route 28, once the village Main Street, was re-routed to make for faster traffic, almost all remaining tourist trade evaporated. The Village became another rural community in need of economic revitalization,

Now

Presently, Fleichmanns is rich with an assortment of properties that have architectural, agricultural, historical and cultural significance. Many of these properties have fallen into disrepair due to disinvestment. However, in the last two years, in part due to the pandemic, and the increased number of remote workers, investment is on the rise with many new residents in the area and entrepreneurs and stakeholders seeking to revitalize Main Street. Several previously vacant commercial buildings have recently been purchased and new businesses, including the Arts Inn, are stimulating economic growth through tourism, job opportunities and community involvement.  Further growth to the community is also being stimulated by the remodeling of the Belleayre Mountain Ski Center which is a five-minute drive from Arts Inn.

The role of Arts Inn Collective

The need for a place where community and visitors can gather to relax, experience art, culture and nature is clearly evidenced by the overwhelming support the Arts Inn Collective has received.  In 2023, we presented five outdoor performances including a children’s theater production and an international music, dance and poetry festival.