GREENE – After nearly a year of extensive renovations, the Sherwood - a historic hotel, restaurant and bar in downtown Greene - will finally re-open to the public, thus starting a new modern chapter for a longstanding community landmark.
A special celebration and ceremonial ribbon cutting will be held on the steps of the Sherwood at 11 a.m. on Saturday, immediately followed by free cake, coffee and tours to show off the building’s fresh new look. News of a grand-opening ceremony, expected to be a momentous occasion of the heart of the village, has sparked a sense of rejuvenation among the entire community, said Amanda Dunlap, owner and manager of the Sherwood.
“We are expecting a big turnout. Everyone is excited to see the work that’s been done,” she said, also noting that the grand re-opening runs in conjunction with the hotel’s 100th anniversary and that Oct. 19 marks exactly one year since the Sherwood was purchased by the Dunlap family.
“The community has supported us throughout the whole renovation process,” she added. “Now, it’s wonderful that people are supporting us as patrons as well.”
Following the re-opening ceremony, the Sherwood will remain open for lunch and dinner during its new regular business hours of 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
While re-opening of the Sherwood is a grand milestone, it’s one that has been months in the making. The building was purchased by Don Dunlap of Greene and his son, DJ Dunlap, last year. Since then, the father-son duo have carried out substantial interior and exterior renovations that give the 100-year-old hotel a contemporary look.
The building’s infrastructure has been completely overhauled for the first time in 35 years, with new heating, plumbing and electric. Cables have been run throughout the building for cable television and WiFi internet connection. A new and improved fire alarm brings the hotel’s fire system up to code. And even the new flooring, light fixtures and a fresh coat of paint have gone a long way in giving the Sherwood a sleek modern look, said Don Dunlap.
“There were no major surprises in the renovation process,” he added. “We really did our homework before buying it.”
Additional work includes exterior paint and roof repairs, landscaping, room-by-room modifications, a refurbished bar and dining area on the main floor, and a new front porch and balcony area which have been iconic parts of the Sherwood since its original unveiling over a century ago.
Although the grand re-opening isn’t until Saturday, the Sherwood actually opened its doors two months ago. Earlier this year, the Dunlaps secured four searate LLCs and a liquor license and began hosting special events as early as April. “There’s been a terrific response,” said Amanda Dunlap, pointing out that the Sherwood’s 19 hotel rooms have already been booked and many are reaching out to the Sherwood for holiday reservations and to host holiday parties.
Saturday’s grand re-opening ceremony will be preceeded by the crowning of the Greene Central School homecoming king and queen on the front porch of the hotel. Homecoming judging is expected to take place between 10 and 10:30 a.m. after the Greene Homecoming Parade.
Anyone who wishes to celebrate with the Sherwood is encouraged to make dinner reservations by calling 656-4196. Additional information - along with before and after renovation pictures - can be found on the Sherwood’s website, www.thesherwoodhotel.com, or on its Facebook page, The Sherwood Hotel.