1889 - 2009
The history of the Copper Beech Inn dates back to 1889 when Archibald Welsh Comstock built his grand house and outbuildings on 53 acres in the Ivoryton section of Essex. Mr. Comstock was the son of Samuel Comstock, who in 1847, founded the S.M. Comstock Co., a chief importer of ivory and manufacturer of piano keys. When Archibald inherited the business the company, now known as 
Comstock, Cheney and Co., was not only manufacturing piano keys, but also billiard balls, dominoes, and combs.
The placement of this grand residence on East Main St. in Ivoryton Village followed the pattern that Samuel Comstock had established in which the executives and stockholders of his company would take up residence in lovely homes along East Main St. to the center of the village in close proximity to the sprawling factory.
In 1940, Archibald Comstock died and left his entire estate to his wife, Harriet. At that time the Ivoryton residence was valued at $20,000 and in 1958 the replacement cost for the house was almost $90,000, one of the highest in Essex.
In 1954, the property was sold and soon thereafter, became a restaurant known as the Johnny Cake Inn. In 1966, the inn was forced into foreclosure and it was purchased by Robert and Jo Mckenzie of Wethersfield in 1972. In homage to the majestic Copper Beech tree gracing the entrance to the property, therein the Copper Beech Inn was created. From the very beginning the Mckenzies established the renowned reputation of this AAA Four Diamond restaurant and inn. The tradition of superb and innovative cuisine and gracious hospitality has been preserved throughout the past 27 years, welcoming guests from near and far for a superb dining experience, a romantic getaway, or a special celebration.
Today the inn is under the watchful eyes of Ian and Barbara Phillips who purchased the property in 2002. They have strived to maintain the high standards that guests identify with the Copper Beech Inn and they are ever present to ensure that their guests experience a memorable visit. Executive Chef Tyler Anderson skillfully adapts seasonal and regional ingredients in his creative menus in the two acclaimed restaurants within the inn – the original Copper Beech restaurant in the Ivoryton Room and the Brasserie Pip, an intimate French-style bistro overlooking the lush gardens of the inn.
The tradition lives on.
