MOUNT VERNON — The Knox Partners in Tourism meeting took place at Chaney Manor, south of Mount Vernon, Wednesday evening. The third event this year, it was organized by the Knox County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau. Guests went on a brief tour of the Chaney Manor, then had a picnic outdoors after the rain stopped.
Freda Chaney, who runs the bed and breakfast with her husband, introduced Sara Schaaf, who owned the house from 1988-98. During Schaaf’s ownership, the Chaney Manor was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Schaaf spoke about the history of the home.
According to Schaaf’s research, a German man named Solomon Geller who purchased the property in 1817 was very likely the person who built the house which still stands there.
“[Geller] is noted for having built a dam in this area, and the second Knox County Jail,” said Schaaf.
James McFarland then acquired the house from Geller in 1823. According to Schaaf, McFarland came to Knox County in 1814, and by 1829 was elected a commissioner. McFarland also served as a state representative for the area for two terms, beginning in 1844.
“Then his son, Ira, taught in the schools here in Knox County and was in the Civil War,” said Schaaf.
Schaaf said it was the history of the property which helped it become designated on the National Register of Historic Places. She led the group on a brief tour of the house, pointing out details of the restoration, which maintained the authenticity and historical feel of the house.
Pat Crow, director of the KCCVB, said the main purposes of these events are networking and the opportunity for a business to show other professionals in similar fields what they have to offer the county in terms of tourism attractions.
“They can see the attractions and hopefully carry this information back to their employees, and perhaps even integrate it into their training to make their folks visitor-ready,” said Crow.
“The purpose of Partners in Tourism is in the name,” Crow continued. “It’s to bring partners together.”
