History of the Maple Tree Inn History Built in 1840, the Maple Tree Inn (formerly known as the "Montgomery House") was the first home in the area outside of Decatur proper. It was one of only three Decatur homes cited by the city's first Centennial Recognition Program. The program recognizes businesses, commercial buildings and homes that are at least 100 years old. Prior to 1856 the land was owned by Philo Hale who gained title April 1, 1837, from the USA, Martin Van Buren, President. According to The History of Macon County (Smith) Mr. Hale owned as much, if not more land, in Macon County than anyone else. He induced others to come to Macon County by publishing glowing accounts of the rolling prairies, rich soil, etc in eastern newspapers. Another book, "History of Macon County Illinois With Illustrations" states that Philo Hale's death was the first recorded in Milam Township. After Mr. Hale died the property was managed by the executors of his estate until January 1, 1856, when W.F. Montgomery purchased "forty acres more or less," including the homestead "for a consideration of $1000." William F. Montgomery was born January 7, 1812 in Virginia. He moved to Macon County in 1835 and married Amelia Suver May 26, 1836. Mr. Montgomery also owned sections 8 & 9 in Austin township as of 1858. He held the office of Hickory Point township supervisor in 1866 and 1867. By the time of his death William F. Montgomery had acquired a significant amount of property in Macon County. He left over 1000 acres to his seven children. A member of the Montgomery family owned and occupied the white farm house at the southwest corner of West Mound and North MacArthur Roads from 1856 to 1993. The present owners purchased the home in September 1993, and after extensive renovations they have opened the house to the public as the "Maple Tree Inn" bed and breakfast. Architectural Features The front porch, front door, entrance hall, parlor, front stairs and portions above, including the widow's walk on the roof, were built in 1885 by the first Montgomery owner, William F. Montgomery. The detailing of the front porch and the widow's walk compliment each other. The scrollwork that makes up the railing and the corner posts are identical. The "gingerbread" details on the front porch provide a Victorian effect. The front door itself is simple. The distinguishing features include the scrollwork at the top of the front entrance and the glass panels that are installed on each side and above the door. The corbel brackets below the soffits were most likely also installed at the time of the 1885 addition. The front stairs are unique. They have been installed using a "suspended" design where there are no supports to the floor along the length of the stair run. A large walnut newel post compliments the curved walnut handrail. The exposed stringer is trimmed with "gingerbread"-type woodwork. All of the door and window casings in the 1885 addition are very elaborate. The doorways are designed with movable glass transoms above the doors. Window casings are extra wide and are constructed very close to the floor, giving the addition a very formal look.   Copyright © Maple Tree Inn 2001