Local Ghost Haunt and Historical Hotspot Gains New Owners, New Look

ILLINOIS—Ghost hunters, interior designers, and history buffs alike will rejoice with the employees of Sycamore’s Carls Fargo Restaurant and Stratford Inn, who enthusiastically applauded the announcement of new ownership Tuesday at an open meeting in the restaurant’s Chamber Room. Rachel and Jennifer Bauer, sisters both of Wisconsin, announced their acquisition of the restaurant-hotel, one of Sycamore’s oldest establishments located on the corner of State and California Streets downtown. The Bauers, together with another sister currently of Manhattan, plan to update the building while maintaining the old-time charm (and mystery!) of the 1926 structure. The business has been owned and operated by the bank since 2009, and maintains most of its revenue through the hotel as well as party and reception bookings. Photo from http://bit.ly/mlBUTK

The Bauers bring a passion for travel, old buildings, people, and hospitality service to Sycamore as well as an ambition to preserve historical charm and “To give back to the community,” says Rachel Bauer. Their combined management, hospitality, and food service experience showcases a promising and energetic resume. During Tuesday’s open meeting, the Bauers answered a variety of questions from the staff and stated their intention to provide a fun yet professional working atmosphere for the staff.

Under a skillfully intuitive but under-resourced staff made up of mainly students and young adults, the Carls Fargo and Stratford Inn welcomes the new management as a chance to showcase Sycamore’s history and provide a comfortable atmosphere for local residents and travelers alike. Planned renovations include a restaurant and bar update, modernized hotel lobby and rooms, and a cafe. The Carls Fargo Restaurant will be closed for three weeks during renovations (effective immediately) and a name change, which will be revealed at its re-opening (currently scheduled for July 20, 2011). The hotel will remain open during this time.

Reuben Ellwood, the first mayor of Sycamore, a state representative, and member of one of “The” famed Ellwood clan of Sycamore and Dekalb, built a mansion on the property in 1882. Eventually, Henry B. Fargo of Geneva purchased the property and built the hotel around part of the original mansion. Tom Carls purchased the building in 1972, and under his oversight “The Fargo” became a local hotspot for evening dinner, drinks, and parties for the next two and a half decades. Since Carls’ retirement, the restaurant/inn has changed hands several times. [See more Fargo/Stratfod history here].

The building contains romance, mystery, and tragedy alike, as many long-time area residents and ghost hunters alike affirm. Thanks to the Bauers and their enthusiastic new staff team, this piece of Sycamore history will remain inspiring...and the ghosts alive and well!

**Ed.'s note: This article was written on the spur of the moment from the author's experience and memory, with few exact quotations, interviews, and first-hand verification. While completely factual and honest, it perhaps does not contain the depth of details she would like, and will be subject to minor editing. Please watch this space for upcoming details as the Carls Fargo Restaurant/Stratford Inn continues to evolve!