t begins in 1790, when the Stephen Van Rensselaer family paid a meager five shillings for several hundred acres of Latham property. The land, which extended clear to Cohoes Falls, was soon being rented to the Frederic Roff family at a rate of 251/2 skippels of saleable winter wheat, and four fat fowls to be delivered annually to Mr. Van Rensselaer.

In later years, however, Frederic’s son Peter grew dissatisfied with the rental terms, and reneged on payment. Only days later his body was discovered on the outskirts of the property, sending a clear message to one and all: Don’t toy with the Van Rensselaers!

In 1842 the famous (some would say infamous) family took a hard financial hit, and was forced to sell hundreds of acres for a mere $960. It was at this time that the original Federal-style farmhouse was built, designed by Mrs. Ernie Roff. Mrs. Roff, who was frustrated by her unfaithful husband’s notorious philandering, began the project without his knowledge. When he learned of what she had done, he vowed to never lay eyes on the structure. The property would pass out of the Roff’s hands, but through it all (and through the turn of the century) the land would be a successful working farm.

It was in 1949 that James and Dorothy O’Hearn purchased the land, and The Century House Restaurant was established. Very quickly the O’Hearns gained a reputation for their hospitality, living in the upstairs of the farmhouse, and serving their guests in their own living and dining rooms. Today these are our North and Federal dining rooms.

Much has changed since the humble beginnings of The Century House. The East Dining Room was built in 1957, and the Main Dining Room in 1965. Our two large ballrooms were added in 1972 and 1977, and in 1985 construction began on what would become The Century House Hotel, designed to reflect the traditional Federal-style that was our beginning. Today we are able to accommodate a cozy gathering of friends in the original Federal Room, or a business conference for five hundred in the Grand Ballroom. Guests at our new Century House Clarion Hotel can enjoy top-notch pool and workout facilities, or can take a step back in time on our historic nature trail.

The Century House Restaurant and Clarion Hotel is still family-owned and operated, and is still dedicated to serving its guests in a relaxed yet elegant setting.

We look forward to having you add your own special touch to our story!