Sept. 27, 2011: Saving the Old Groton Inn

Jen commented on Greater Boston on 09.30.11
As a nearby resident, I dont understand why Mr. Pergantis does not want to work more fully with the town good business sense, at the least, would indicate that the future of his new restaurant rests on maintaining a friendly/cordial relationship with local residents. While I sympathize with the heartbreak of losing so much of the property, I am baffled by the continued focus on simply razing the entire structure when so much history will be lost forever.

Tonya commented on Greater Boston on 09.29.11
Thank you to WGBH for running this program! It has sparked no pun intended some interesting discussions about what’s happened with the Inn over the past thirty or so years the general consensus in Town is that the Inn was lacking in many areas of quality goods and services, as evidenced by low customer turn out and even Mr. Pergantis’ own observations of this. The lack of customers had nothing to do with a type of “class warfare” it is basic supply and demand issues and sadly the management just couldn’t identify and then provide what people wanted and has now taken the position that it is a matter of “support” when it’s really a matter of “business.” I understand that Mr. Pergantis feels he’s too old to rebuild, but I trust that there’s someone out there who is destined to save the Inn, however it will take a little time to find the Inn’s hero we simply ask that the Inn and/or it’s viable parts stay in tact for a bit longer to allow for a solution to rise from the ashes. I hope that this show will make its way to someone who is inspired to save the Inn so that it can one day return to what we all hope for it to be again a flourishing, bustling resource in our community.

Pat commented on Greater Boston on 09.28.11
Thank you to Azita and Emily for this program, and for the comments made by those participating. The town officials have worked very hard to be helpful to Mr. Pergantis, and are still willing to help him during this difficult time. There have been two fundraising efforts George and Gloria have received the proceeds of one of them, the other one is ongoing and will continue at Grotonfest this Saturday and a petition of support has been given to them. Everyone is hopeful that a conclusion of saving the existing 30 of the Inn for restoration, will happen.

lisa commented on Greater Boston on 09.28.11
Shame on you Mr. Ott for accusing Mr. Pergantis of being "out of step" with Groton and perpetuating Grotons holierthanthou sensibility. Youve wasted valuable time on your liberal claptrap. Circling like vultures, crying for a benefactor to save your landmark Inn is offensive. Mr. Pergantis is correct in stating that the townspeople have done little to support the Inn. Has he even been compensated for whats been removed from his property in the name of historic preservation? Not once did I hear even a hint at Grotons townspeople providing some meaningful support such as fund raising. If this is as important as you say, then its past time to stop casting aspersions and get proactive.

Adele commented on Greater Boston on 09.27.11
In my previous comment about the Groton Inn, that "30" should be 30 percent. Many thanks to WGBH and the Greater Boston team for a great segment.

Adele commented on Greater Boston on 09.27.11
The GROTON INN is the OLDEST INN IN AMERICA! Although the fire did terrible damage, the official Engineers Report to the Town of Groton determined that 30 is completely viable and could easily be saved. That 30 includes the oldest part from 1678, much of the facade and the whole first floor on the Main Street side. Desperately need someone to buy it fast someone with a preservationist vision and spirit, a profound love of history, a respect for historic zoning constraints, mountains of patience and very deep pockets. Join our open Facebook group Save Whats Left of... the Groton Inn. There are almost 300 of us worldwide working together.