By Kate Bartlett
Those familiar to Ellicottville and it’s history know the old Telemark Motel on the corner of Route 219 and Holiday Valley Road. After many years of being up for sale, a dedicated family investment group will soon be opening The Lincoln Boutique Motel, with a completely renovated, fresh, modern design.
Route Two Nineteen, LLC purchased the property in December 2023. This family investment team has deep roots in the community, and had been searching for a way to stay connected and serve the area with a family-type business.
One of the investors, Dawn (Barczak) Hogan had worked at Cadillac Jacks for over 8 years during her early adulthood, and felt it was almost a second home to her growing up. “I was good friends with the Tekavec family, the owners of Cadillac Jacks and The iconic Telemark Motel, and I started working in the kitchen at age 14. I worked my way to hostess, then waitress and eventually bartending, my sweet spot where I spent several years. I have such fond memories in this building working with friends and family over the seasons. It’s an honor to be a part of this next chapter.”
Since acquiring the property in December, the team has opened 2 short-term rental properties next to the future motel that are currently available. Both units have sweeping views of the Sunrise Chairlift and offer a cozy retreat just outside the village.
The motel property is currently knee deep in renovations, with fresh drywall, paint and new bathrooms underway. The renovation team has been working tirelessly on this project. Thomas Hogan (Dawn’s husband) and his crew, have extensive experience in construction, and have stuck to a tight schedule.
When complete, The Lincoln Boutique Motel will boast 12 rooms (7 king, 5 queen/full) complete with modern, light décor offering cozy vibes for any getaway. The outdoor space will allow guests to take in sweeping views of the slopes, complete with multiple firepits, outdoor games and seating. The team has also had talks of e-bikes on site. “We envision our guests enjoying all four seasons in this space, taking in the outdoors, hanging out and making memories with their families and friends.”
Route Two Nineteen, LLC is still searching for the ideal restaurant partner who will lease the turn-key space. “Our vision is for a year-round full-service restaurant and bar on property offering 3 meals per day for the convenience of our guests, and the community as well.”
The team is excited to reveal the property this spring with a Grand Opening Party. “We all have deep ties to the southern tier, and we’ve already been so welcomed by the community. It’s wonderful to hear that people are just as excited about this project as we are. We can’t wait to hear more stories about the old Telemark; it’s an honor to carry on the legacy of this building for the community”
The name “Lincoln” was decided upon for a variety of reasons. First, it is timeless and historic, as is the building. The copper roof on the building, which remains, was also representative of Lincoln pennies, as well as the saying “pennies from heaven.” And finally, it suits the village of Ellicottville with its presiden-tial street names. “The more we thought about the name, the more obvious it became,” says Dawn. “We’ve been researching Abraham Lincoln quotes throughout the process and it’s become even more meaningful along the way.”
“The best way to predict your future is to create it,” says Dawn, quoting Abraham Lincoln. “We’re very excited to be a party of this community in this manner, and look forward to hosting many families and friends for years to come.”
For more information, follow on Facebook @The Lincoln Boutique Motel and Instagram @thelincolnevl. Watch for updates on the Grand Opening this Spring. Short term rentals currently available @ www.airbnb.com\h\thesixpacksuiteatsunrise