About 30 minutes north of Pittsburgh rests the quaint, historic town of Harmony, Pennsylvania. Founded by the Harmony Society in the early 1800s, 90 families purchased land and moved into this beautiful settlement outside of Zelienople. However, after only 10 years, the Harmonists sought more land and better access to water transportation. This led to a Mennonite community taking over the town and shaping it into a thriving community. This community included a clothing factory, a sawmill, a distillery and one very notable—and allegedly haunted—hotel and saloon: The Harmony Inn.
The Harmony Inn was built in 1856 as an Italianate style residence by railroad executive and prominent banker Austin Pierce. However, soon after construction, Pierce’s railroad company failed and the property was sold to the Zeigler family, descendants of the original Mennonite community.
The Zeiglers transformed the residence into a hotel and saloon. The property was called the Zeigler Hotel for many years but switched hands a few times until it landed with the present owners of North Country Brewing in 2013.
With over a century full of rich history and plentiful visitors, including railroad travelers, local patrons, hotel guests, and staff it’s no surprise that some guests at the Saloon and Inn never checked out. And, after experiencing Chef Brett’s menu, we really can’t blame them.
Upon entry at the Inn, guests are greeted by a host at a check-in station inside the breathtaking entryway and foyer of the property. Lining the walls of the entryway are pictures of ghostly visitors, their shadowy figures frozen in time. Dining is available on both the first and second floors, where a mysterious young girl in a white gown has been sighted on several occasions. In these same areas, ghostly faces have been seen peeking around doorways, adding to the eerie atmosphere. For those seeking a less spine-chilling experience, guests can also enjoy dining on the picturesque front porch or the charming outdoor patio.
Other reported occurrences around the Inn include sudden drops in temperature, unexpected gusts of wind through doorways, rearranged furniture, and, most intriguingly, dimes left mysteriously around the property for the staff. Legend has it that these coins are gifts from Louie, an original innkeeper known for rewarding hardworking staff with small but meaningful tips—a generous gesture in his time. Louie’s ghost is also said to have been seen walking upstairs and rocking in a chair.
The Harmony Inn stands as a captivating blend of ghostly allure and historical charm. Whether you’re drawn in by the delicious German cuisine, the popular craft beverages, or the chance to encounter something supernatural, the restaurant offers a uniquely compelling experience for both skeptics and believers. An unforgettable adventure awaits those bold enough to make a reservation… do you dare?
For more history and ghostly tales of Harmony, take a short walk to Neff Haus Ice Cream for an after-dinner treat, and then embark on a guided ghost tour to dive deeper into the town’s spirited past.
