1844 House
A Brief History
David French signed an Article of Agreement for one hundred acres of land in 1803. The land was part of the Clarkson Tract. This area became known as South Potsdam and "French's"
David and Sally Tupper French built a log cabin in 1805 and moved into the family home (next door) in 1815. It became a tavern, stage coach stop, post office, polling place, and community center. Dances were held there Saturday nights and "hell and damnation" sermons were held there on Sundays. The French Family Farm is in the National Register of Historic Places.
The "1844 House" was built originally as a farm hand's house, circa 1844, by Ira T. French, David's son. Later the house was sold to William Perry French, a son of Ira's. He expanded the building and had a general store and community hall. When the stagecoach ceased, the polling place and post office were moved to Will's General Store.
William French sold the property in 1885. It went through many subsequent owners. Sally T.S. Dingsoyr (sixth generation) and Gigi J. Scheiber bought the house in 1985 and converted it into a restaurant. It opened as "French's 1844 House" on February 28, 1986 and featured French influenced Continental Cuisine and closed in 2001.
After 5 years of “hibernation” the restaurant was “re-awakened” by husband and wife team Brian A. & Jenny Drake Walker In February 2006. Both are professionally trained Chefs and career hospitality professionals. Brian was trained at The Culinary Institute of America and The Art Institute of Ft. Lauderdale, and Jenny was trained at The New England Culinary Institute.
Photos
 Located on Rt 11 between Potsdam & Canton |
 Front Porch |
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 Front Dining Bay Window View |
 Front Dining Room |
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 Full Bar and Wine Service |
 "Wine Cellar" Room |
Our “American Bistro” showcases the best foods and flavors that our community, state, & country have to offer. Each product we use has been carefully sourced and selected to ensure superior quality flavor and wholesomeness. We cook with a “simple elegant style” that allows the naturally subtle or bold flavors of the food to take center stage and our artistic presentations to add elegance to each dish.