The History of Lewisburg Hotel

Originally established in 1834, this hotel graces the Main Street of downtown Lewisburg. With easy access to the Pennsylvania canal, the Old East-West Turnpike and two major railroads, the hotel provided accommodations for generations of travelers. Every governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania from 1831 – 1901 was said to have been a guest, as well as nationally known notables of the Victorian University of Lewisburg in 1846 ( later renamed Bucknell University).

The hotel was home of the first President of the University and the first graduation exercises were held on the premises in 1851. Members of the board of trustees in attendance included U.S. Senator Simon Cameron and James Buchanan. Buchanan became the fifteenth President of the United States within five years of his visit. Following its purchase by William Cameron in 1874, the hotel was known as Cameron House for over sixty years. After this ownership, the doors were closed to the public for a two year renovation, in which the Post Civil War affluence of the North remains in evidence today.

The guest register, after the turn of the century, included sports figures Jim Thorpe, John McGraw and Christy Mathewson, and from the performing arts, such notable poets as Walt Whitman and singer Marian Anderson, as well as most of the “Big Bands” of the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s. After 150 years of serving the community, the hotel again closed its doors in 1993.

In October of 1995, the Lewisburg Hotel was purchased by Norm and Nancy Buck. After extensive renovations, the hotel reopened in November of 1997. The hotel is the only one in Lewisburg to withstand the ravages of time and progress. The plush carpeting, polished brass and distinctive wood reflect the period in which a bawdy river town was being transformed into Victorian elegance.

The present facility now combines a fascinating history with present day amenities and service.

Recent notable visitors to the Hotel include Ralph Nader, Kevin Bacon, Kevin Costner, Janet Leigh, Senator Santorum, Governor Rendell, Tony Hawk, Ed Ott and Steve Kline.

With our experienced, dedicated staff and our chef’s culinary expressions, you will find that your dining experience here at the Lewisburg Hotel will be a memorable one.

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Governor's Room
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Cameron Bar & Lounge
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