Western Hotel / Joseph Nichols Tavern

600 5th St., Lynchburg VA 24505

The Western Hotel / Joseph Nichols Tavern was built in the early 1800’s and is one of the oldest buildings in Lynchburg. It has been used for many purposes through the years. In 1974, this building was purchased by Beverly Cosby and friends after Bev learned that the building was scheduled for demolition. A non-profit organization was formed, Lynchburg Restoration and Housing Corporation, with the plan of creating low-income housing and commercial space in the downstairs areas. (Later ownership of the Western Hotel was transferred to Lynchburg Covenant Fellowship, Inc.) After much hard labor from volunteers it was ready to host programs for many more years.

More recently, Community Development Block Grant funds were provided to LCF for some of our exterior restoration needs and The Easley Foundation contributed funding toward a new roof.

Many activities have occurred at this unique historic building, including low-income apartments, a dinner theater, Daily Bread began its first months of operations at this site, a luncheon operation, New Land Jobs employment, and training programs.

This property has also housed The Festival Center, which helped to build community and caring for the families of the College Hill Neighborhood.

This property is currently for sale.