CALLICOON  — The Western Hotel is a symbol of the past and a hope for the future in the center of the hamlet of Callicoon, where history and community spirit meet. Since the 1870s, its historic ballroom has hosted firemen’s balls, suffragette meetings and local events like Dickens on the Delaware. 

Numerous memories have been created there, including treasured weddings and milestone celebrations, as well as iconic performances by artists like Rick Danko, Eilen Jewell, and Cliff Westfall.

The ballroom, the hotel’s crown jewel, is poised to shine once more, as the Raise the Roof Gala brought together neighbors, artists and companies to mobilize support for repairing the ballroom on Saturday night, November 16.

A night bursting 

with energy

There was nothing less than magic during the gala as the evening was electrified by live performances, and there was a sense of unity and purpose in the room.

“We are beyond grateful to all the local businesses that generously donated auction items and gift baskets for the Raise the Roof event,” exclaimed organizer and hotel owner, Irene Nickolai. “This outpouring of support from Callicoon, Narrowsburg, Jeffersonville and Livingston Manor shows just how much our community cares about preserving our history and creating a bright future.”

In addition to the helpful hand of Agway of Callicoon, the heroes of the evening were Cindy Lu Adkins, Bill Jenks, Leo Schmidt, Melissa Bell and Melanie Bendavid.

Local companies participated and donated prizes, including Seminary Hill Cidery, Lazy Sunday Tattoo, North Branch Inn, Catskill Provisions, Sullivan County Democrat, The Heron Restaurant, Litt Home and Books, Callicoon Supply, Sullivan Sundries, and The Walk, to mention a few.

Beautiful pieces were given by artists Karen Flood and Elise Freda, and a sumptuous gala supper was sponsored by the local wine dealer Gasko & Mayer to add flair to the evening.

The vision for the 

ballroom’s future

The historic ballroom requires a significant restoration due to more than a century of wear and tear.  Restoring its tin ceiling, adding insulation, installing professional lighting, enlarging the stage for performances and installing central heating and cooling to make it a year-round venue are just a few of the necessary upgrades that will be funded by the gala.

“The future for the ballroom is as grand as its history,” said Nickolai. “Picture it bustling with live music, art shows, theater, yoga classes, and festive holiday markets. Imagine Sweet 16 parties, weddings, and anniversaries celebrated under its elegant chandeliers.” 

“This isn’t just about repairs, it’s about creating a vibrant, year-round cultural hub that draws people from far and wide while staying rooted in the heart of our community.”

How you can help

To continue gathering money for this important restoration effort, a GoFundMe page has been created. For information and to make a donation, go to www.westerncallicoon.com. 

“By working together, we can pay tribute to the past, revitalize the present, and create a future in which this famous area flourishes for many more years,” said Nickolai. “Let’s elevate the antique ballroom’s roof and its potential. We’re only beginning, but the future is bright!”