The Harmony Inn, a historic rustic tavern now run by North Country Brewing, is situated in the National Historic District of Harmony, Pennsylvania.

About The Harmony Inn

Originally the home of Austin Pearce, a notable banker, mill operator, and railroad executive, the Inn was constructed in 1856 and showcases exquisite Italianate architecture. Its elegant design features black walnut and chestnut woodwork, and it is believed to have been one of the first buildings in the area to have indoor plumbing.

As Halloween approaches, the Harmony Inn becomes an intriguing destination, steeped in fascinating history. According to HauntedHouses.com, the town of Harmony was founded in 1804 by pacifist German Lutheran Separatists who chose this picturesque location for their communal settlement. Their group thrived until 1807 when they adopted a vow of celibacy. In 1814, the Harmonists sold their property to a group of Mennonites before relocating to Indiana. Although the Mennonite church closed in 1902, many of Harmony's current residents are descendants of those early settlers.

Originally built as Pearce's private residence, the Harmony Inn underwent various transformations following the Civil War. Over the years, it has served multiple purposes, including a hotel, meeting house, livery stable, boarding house, tavern, and restaurant, each chapter adding to its rich legacy.

Harmony Inn: Food & Drink Overview

The Harmony Inn offers a diverse menu that features a delightful fusion of classic tavern fare and contemporary culinary innovations. Guests can indulge in hearty appetizers such as Bavarian pretzels served with house-made beer cheese, or savor the taste of fresh, locally sourced salads. Main courses include delicious options like gourmet burgers, expertly grilled steaks, and artisanal pizzas, each crafted to satisfy a variety of palates. For those with a preference for plant-based dishes, the Inn also provides a selection of vegetarian and vegan choices that highlight seasonal produce and innovative recipes.

The Harmony Inn's menu also pays homage to its German heritage by offering an array of traditional dishes that have delighted patrons for decades. Among the highlights are the various spaetzles—soft egg noodles that serve as a perfect accompaniment to several entrees, including rich and creamy mushroom gravy or savory cheese.

Another feature of their German cuisine is the schnitzel dishes, expertly prepared with either tender pork or chicken, breaded and fried to golden perfection, and often served with a side of tangy sauerkraut or warm potato salad. These authentic German offerings add a cultural depth to the menu, inviting guests to enjoy a taste of traditional German culinary art in a historical setting.

The beverage selection at the Harmony Inn complements its menu beautifully, featuring an impressive array of craft beers, many of which are brewed by North Country Brewing. Patrons can choose from a rotating selection of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and crisp lagers, ensuring there's always a perfect brew to pair with their meal. Additionally, the Inn boasts an extensive wine list and a creative cocktail menu, offering both classic and signature concoctions that promise to elevate any dining experience.

Reported Hauntings at The Harmony Inn

Local lore suggests that one of the spirits haunting this location is that of a man named Barney, who tragically fell down the stairs and broke his neck in a devastating accident many years ago. His untimely demise left a lingering presence, and staff members, along with particularly sensitive individuals, have reported feeling a warm, friendly essence accompanying them as they go about their daily duties in the establishment. This comforting sensation has led many to believe that Barney is watching over them.

However, the atmosphere can quickly shift. Both employees and visitors have experienced the unsettling sensation of cold air brushing past them, as if unseen entities were moving about, creating an eerie contrast to the warm feelings associated with Barney. Additionally, unexplained electrical disturbances have been noted, with lights flickering and devices malfunctioning without any apparent cause.

Mysterious phenomena abound at the Harmony Inn, where staff, owners, and some patrons have reported witnessing the apparition of a man appearing in mirrors, often accompanied by the formation of misty figures on the upper floors. These sightings have left many feeling both intrigued and unnerved, as they navigate the duality of an establishment filled with charm yet shadowed by its ghostly inhabitants.

Numerous media reports have documented the paranormal happenings at the Harmony Inn, with many articles and stories displayed prominently on the walls of the bar area, inviting patrons to delve into the history of the hauntings. Notable confirmations of these occurrences have emerged from various reputable media outlets in western Pennsylvania, including KDKA, WDOCI, Pittsburgh Press, and Post Gazette, affirming the inn's reputation as a hotspot for the supernatural.

In a particularly remarkable incident, a quick-thinking photographer was able to capture an image of the man in the mirror, a striking visual that has since become a prized exhibit showcased proudly in the bar. This photograph has sparked further interest and discussions among guests, adding to the rich tapestry of stories that envelop the Harmony Inn and its enigmatic resident, Barney.