Then and Now
The Elm Tree Inn / Willena Hotel

Guests relaxing in front of the Elm Tree Inn, East Brookfield, MA ca. approx 1910. Photo courtesy of the East Brookfield Historical Museum.

Although we were unable to find anyone in town that remebered the Elm Tree Inn, we are fairly certain it is the same house that now resides on Main Street across from the Citgo Station. We've tracked the home's history back to about 5-10 years after this photo was taken when Irene "Dufault" Derrick lived in the house as a child when it was owned by the Dufault family. Many long time residents remembered the home as the "Willena Hotel" as seen below with the portico extending over a half moon driveway. Those that have lived in the house remember an extroadinarily large butlers pantry and the two large chimneys which serviced four beautiful fireplaces.

Hotel Willena, East Brookfield, MA ca. approx 1940. Photo courtesy of the Frank Guadette Collection.

Over the years the house was utilized as a gas station and an addition on the eastern end of the building served as the auto repair shop. The location of the old gas pumps is hidden by a large raised flower bed close to the road. Eventually the repair shop was converted to a carpet sales store.

Thank you to all the individuals that helped track down the details above. If anyone has any more details please contact the East Brookfield Technology Committee.

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