Multi-Million Dollar Project Creates 12 New Full-time Jobs, Retains 55 Existing Employees
Photos Available here
Empire State Development (ESD) announced the grand reopening of the historic White Inn located at 52 E. Main Street in the Village of Fredonia. The White Inn dates to 1868 and retains much of the architectural integrity that makes it iconic in the region. The multi-million-dollar project restored the previously vacant building into a full service upper-scale hotel with 24-rooms, lounge, entertainment, and event space. The goal of the project was to bring guests the modern amenities of an upscale stay, while preserving the Victorian Era charm that the original White Inn became known for over more than a century ago.
“The rebirth of the White Inn is helping increase tourism and create jobs while at the same time restoring a historic landmark and creating an enhanced community appeal,” said Hope Knight, ESD President, CEO & Commissioner. “The renovated property honors the building’s history, but also makes it relevant to new generations.”
Steve St. George, owner of S. St. George Enterprises, Inc., and Devin Jones, a local restauranteur in Fredonia, developed and executed the boutique hotel, restaurant, and event center project. The two partners acquired the 150-plus year-old property in 2022 after it had been closed for five years following a foreclosure. The 25,000-square-foot building was originally constructed as a private residence by members of the White family and became an inn around 1920.
The rehabilitation of the White Inn included the complete renovation of all guest rooms and banquet facility down to the masonry walls and wood framing. Renovation also included limited demolition, site and prep work, repair and restoration of an elevator, and the installation of a new kitchen.
“Our goal was to honor the legacy of The White Inn while creating something truly special for the future,” said Steve St. George, owner of S. St. George Enterprises, Inc. “We believe we’ve not only preserved its historic essence but elevated it to a new standard of hospitality.”
ESD recognized that the renovation and reopening of the White Inn would contribute to the efforts of placemaking in Fredonia and help establish the village as a tourist destination. The
project was supported with a $519,448 grant to be used for a portion of the construction costs. It is expected to create 12 new full-time jobs and retain 55 existing employees who will be catering to guests including SUNY Fredonia college students and their visiting families, business function attendees, weddings guests, and other event participants.
Mark Geise, Deputy County Executive for Economic Development and CEO of the CCIDA, said, “We are over-the-top impressed with the final product, which provides a much-needed hospitality venue in the heart of Fredonia while helping to maintain a major piece of local history. Steve St. George, Devin Jones, and their entire team have done a stellar job and The White Inn has become a key destination for residents and visitors alike. We want to thank them for making such an investment in the County, and also express our appreciation to all stakeholders who understood and had confidence in this project to make it a reality, including the Village, the County, New York State and many others.”
“The grand reopening of the White Inn marks a powerful moment of renewal for Fredonia and all of Chautauqua County. This project is more than a restoration — it’s a reinvestment in our local heritage, workforce, and future,” said Paul M. Wendel Jr., Chautauqua County Executive. “I commend Steve St. George, Devin Jones, and their team for their dedication to preserving the charm of this iconic landmark while transforming it into a modern hospitality destination. With new jobs, increased tourism, and a reinvigorated Main Street, the White Inn stands as a shining example of what’s possible when public and private partners come together to believe in a community’s potential.”
“The White Inn is a huge economic anchor for our village,” said Fredonia Mayor Michael Ferguson, who also provided The White Inn ownership and management with a key to the Village. “Not only has it once again become a key destination, but it also will help to support other businesses in our community by bringing and keeping visitors into the heart of our business district. We want to express our sincere appreciation to Steve St. George, Devin Jones and their entire team, along with the CCIDA, Empire State Development and the State of New York, for helping to revitalize a signature destination in Fredonia.”
For more information on The White Inn visit TheWhiteInn.com or find it on Facebook and Instagram.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state’s 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state’s world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.
Contact:
Pamm Lent (ESD) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (800) 260-7313
Laura Magee (ESD) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239 | (800) 260-7313