Ballroom opening: in photos

The Merwinsville Hotel Restoration in Gaylordsville held the grand reopening of its third floor ballroom June 30 with a special tea party. Renovation of the ballroom was the last step in a 50-plus year process to restore the historic hotel on Brown's Forge Road. In addition to the opening, an exhibit of art by local artists is on display based on the them Merwinsville Hotel. For more information about the restoration process, click here.

Deborah Rose/Geraldine Haase, mother of Merwinsville Hotel Restoration President Jeremy Ruman and Vice President and Treasurer Jennifer Haase, left, chats with fellow Gaylordsville resident Leslie Weeks during the tea party opening for the historic hotel’s third-floor ballroom June 30.

Deborah Rose/Dann Kenefick, a supporter of the Restoration, selects some refreshments from the array of offerings provided by Hendrick’s Catering of Sherman.

Deborah Rose/Photographs depicting Merwinsville Hotel's history were on display throughout the building, now a museum.

Deborah Rose/In a nod to the ballroom’s past, life-sized silhouettes convey energy and spirit in the renovated space.

Deborah Rose/Several alcoves on the third floor now serve as museum space.

Deborah Rose/Memorabilia are on display throughout the museum, including the recently renovated ballroom.

Deborah Rose/A small patch of original wall was preserved during the renovation process.

Deborah Rose/Kandie and Casey Carle, of East Haddam, performed period dance during the reception.

Deborah Rose/Guests explore the renovated space, limited to 13 people a time due to fire code.