20 Years of Tradition at the Hunting Tavern in Andes

By Robert Brune

ANDES — Upon entering the Hunting Tavern this past Saturday evening, you would have been welcomed by Joanne Kosuda-Warner engaging in friendly conversation with everyone coming and going, offering information about the historic gathering place for residents and visitors. The board members and volunteers do a marvelous job by helping to create an uplifting and educational experience.

Kosuda-Warner was kind enough to share a bit of the history of this annual event and of the Hunting Tavern’s, “20-year tradition of offering a simple meal to the Andes community in anticipation of the holiday season. It’s open to all and free (donations gladly accepted). The Andes society for history and culture board members make homemade soups and mulled cider, set up tables and chairs, light the fires in the parlor and tap room and open the doors. This year about 100 people attended, many coming with groups of friends. Soups ranged from chunky tomato, chicken and orzo, kale potatoes and sausage, pea soup, chili and of course turkey and rice. We always attract those who have never been to the museum. They wander the galleries and discover the picture of Nancy Hunting whose family bought the tavern in 1839 and ran it until the 1870s. Or the images of Andes as it was back in the day. Or the tap room’s anti- rent display and atmosphere.”
The photo includes board members Jim Andrews, Linda Dunne, Vera and Donnie Liddle, Bob Abbate, Judy garrison, Sarah Lewis, Margaret Moshier, Cathy Castellano and Joanne Kosuda Warner, as well as Andes hotel owner Derek Curl, who made a generous donation to the building fund.