House of Blues - Area landmark reopens to continue its entertainment tradition

Stanhope - The Stanhope House, long renowned as a “house of blues,” is again alive with the sounds of music reverberating through the walls of the centuries-old building. The establishment, which has featured performances by the likes of Muddy Waters, Richie Havens, the Allman Brothers, and John Lee Hooker, closed in July for major renovations. It reopened last weekend with a sellout crowd for a concert by Steve Forbert. Owner Maureen Myers was excited as she tended to last-minute details on the day of the official opening. She recalled the decision to redo the club as several structural changes and updates were necessary. “A building that is 215 years old needs a face lift,” she explained. “But it also needed updating in many areas.” Built in 1790, the Stanhope House was a stagecoach stop on the Morris Canal, a portion of which exists today within a short distance of the structure. Its four “Rumford fireplaces,” designed specifically to heat, are among only 12 remaining in existence. The building also claims historic significance as the site of a speech given by Daniel Webster during his unsuccessful bid for the presidency of the United States in 1836. Prior to that, the land and building were deeded by the King of England to Lord Stanhope. The redesign of the space required relocating the stage and removing some major walls to allow the performance area to be visible from almost every corner of the club. The bar has returned to a former shape, also allowing viewing of the performers. Myers said the menu for now will be simple American cuisine. “Later we will be working our way into a more diverse menu,” she added. Chef Carlos, who has been working in Morris County for about seven years, promises a bill of fare that will feature full dinners along with traditional tavern selections. “It is a menu that will be evolving,” said Myers. Adjacent party rooms, each accommodating 50, will soon be available for catered events. Myers said there will be no extra rental charge for use of the rooms, as long as a minimum of $15 per person is achieved. But the element that has kept the Stanhope House in the forefront is the music, and the upcoming schedule is jam packed with performers to please most musical tastes. In addition to the ever present sound of the blues, performers will vary from The Subcommittee, described as “groove-oriented, smart, ferocious, and multi-faceted ska, Latino, funk, swing, thrashy punk and urban rap,” to local favorites and various fusion combos. “The Stanhope House has a wonderful history, both musically and as a location,” said Myers. “I welcome all of our customers back that we have missed in the last several months to hear some good music, dance, and eat.” The Stanhope House is located at 45 Main St., Stanhope. Parking is available in the lot behind the building and at the police station, at 77 Main St. For reservations, call 973-347-0458, or e-mail stanhopehouse@aol.com. For a complete schedule of bands and special events, visit online at stanhopehouse.com.