The Story

It began as Lot 93 granted to William Hendricks in 1816. It’s likely the current structure was not built until C. 1870 to act as a livery stable and occasionally a sale barn. Another 40 years would pass before this livery would start to make a name for itself. Welcome, Samuel Herin - 1892.

“Sam was recognized as the authority on horses, and his advice on horse matters was often sought by those wanting to make an equine purchase. An article of the day describes his stables as a “model of beauty and convenience.” - “Madison,” by Ron Grimes.

The building was utilized as a livery until the 1920s when Louis Eisenhardt took over the stables as a fashion livery.  He was one of the last known owners to operate it as such. Right on the cusp of the automobile era, liveries began to fade. The fashion livery stable furnished vital services for residents and visitors of Madison for many years.

Eisenhardt passed in 1935, and in 1939 the ”Try Me” Bottling Works leased the building. The Courier (Louisville) stated on May 23, 1939, "Roy Cranford, president and general manager of the concern, has leased the Eisenhardt property, a two story brick building on Second Street now owned by Vawter Irwin, in which he will install $20,000 worth of new machinery." Some of the flavors manufactured were: Red Rock Cola, Nu-Grape, Rose-Bud Root Beer, and Lemon Soda. Tragically, Mr. Cranford died a few weeks after this announcement and the bottling works was taken over for a time by someone else but in a few years faded away.

From 1972 on the building was purchased and used by the Madison Courier. The Madison Courier stored newsprint in the building, moving large rolls of newsprint from the warehouse to the printing press. The Madison Courier was first published weekly in 1837 and it's now the second oldest newspaper in Indiana.

This building has worn many hats through its time in Madison, now its our turn to honor the past and look toward the future. We welcome you to The Chandler Hotel, a family owned small business.