Country House Restaurant

April 29, 2012 in Haunted Locations

The Country House Restaurant

Stony Brook, NY

By: Thelma Ankney

Located in the historic part of Stony Brook sits the Country House Restaurant. It was originally built in 1710 as a farmhouse by Obediah Davis from Mt. Sinai. In the 1800’s it is said that the house was also used as a stagecoach stop and then became the home of English actor Thomas Haddaway. The house was then known as Haddaway House and was also where the first Episcopal Sunday School in Stony Brook was founded. Stories also tell of old séances taking place by a neighbor, William Sydney Mount.

In the 1900’s it became a private residence and it wasn’t until the 1960’s and 1970’s that it became a restaurant called 1710 House. In 1978 it was finally named the Country House Restaurant and in 2005 it was purchased by Bob Willemstyn. The beautiful house has been restored and transformed into an elegant restaurant with a romantic flair. It has been voted as “Most Romantic Restaurant on Long Island” by AOL in 2007.

Many believe that the Country House Restaurant is haunted by a spirit of a woman named Annette Williamson who was murdered in the “Old Field Room” and is buried in the family cemetery located on the grounds. Her apparition has been sighted, not only by the staff but by patrons as well. Some believe that she has an attachment to the current owner, Bob. He has often heard his name being called as well as his tie clips going missing. Others believe that aside from Annette’s spirit, there are several other spirits, one who is said to be a “bad” spirit. A psychic who once visited the restaurant claimed that the bad spirit was that of William Sydney Mount. Luckily he didn’t come around often but he has been known to throw glasses, plates, knives and wine bottles.

If you decide to visit the Country House Restaurant, enjoy the delicious cuisine, take in the beautiful décor and make sure to open your eyes and mind to the ghostly inhabitants.