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FROM PAST
Since Vermont became a state in 1791, only four families have owned the land on which COHO (formerly the Colonial House Inn), stands. The original Cape house, built between 1790 and 1810, was the home of the Richardson family and served as a working farm until the mid-1960s.
In 1967, Jean and Chuck Savage purchased the property, which included the house and 12 acres of land. Legend has it that during the early 1960s, at the height of the Weston Priory (a Catholic Benedictine monastery), four nuns arrived at the Savage family home in search of lodging. This encounter inspired the Savages to begin renting out rooms. By 1968, they expanded the house to include the first Inn rooms and renovated the guest living room. In 1969, Motel Rooms 1-7—formerly part of The Palmer House Motel in Manchester, Vermont—were transported over the mountains and reassembled in Weston. The Inn continued to grow, and in 1974, the dining room and Motel Rooms 8 and 9 were added.
In 1979, Betty and John Nunnikhoven purchased the Inn and continued the legacy of hospitality. After 23 years, their daughter Kim and her husband Jeff took over as innkeepers, running the property until the spring of 2024.
TO PRESENT
Now, we are proud to be the fourth family to serve as innkeepers at this historic property. We’re excited to welcome you to our newly reimagined space, where history meets modern comfort. Living on-site with our two dogs, Raven and Blinkin, we are dedicated to providing a warm, inviting atmosphere for all who visit.
In May 2024, we began a project to refresh our guest rooms. The Motel, which is a true example of mid-century modern architecture, was left largely untouched and was in dire need of improvements. Motor Lodge Rooms 1 through 8 have been updated with organic, USA-made Saatva mattresses, upgraded linens, and new furnishings that reflect the eclectic charm of the property, while honoring its rich history and our vision for its future as a year-round boutique inn. Comprehensive renovations of our motor lodge rooms began in November of 2024, the first room renovation is anticipated to be completed in January of 2025.
We can’t wait to share our unique corner of Vermont with you. Come experience the charm, history, and hospitality that make the Colonial House Inn a truly special destination.
