Cornerstone Inn on the Square

Welcome to Cornerstone Inn of the Square, where hospitality and comfort await you.

Walk through history while rejuvenating in modern luxury in this lovingly restored 1870's bank building. Located on historic Washington Square, across the Illinois River from Peoria, the Inn is uniquely settled amidst the heart of Illinois Civil War History. The brick and stone Italianate Style building was built by Charles Anthony and Henry Denhart in 1874. The two had begun a business partnership in 1865 with the purchase of a dry goods store, located just East of where the bank now stands. Washington Square is well known for shopping. Specialty shops include gifts and antiques and makes it a favorite destination for shoppers throughout central Illinois.

The dry goods store on the Square was known as a meeting place for Abraham Lincoln and other politicians, a landmark where Lincoln formulated ideas. He stayed in Washington while trying cases in the Metamora Courthouse and while campaigning for the Presidency.

Denhart's Gift Cards are perfect for any special occasion! Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or simply a thank you, treat family and friends to an evening they'll remember... Give us a call or stop in!

Denhart Baking Company
Visit our coffee shop and restaurant which will be serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring Fair Trade & organic coffees and espresso plus a variety of freshly baked pastries and goodies.

C-Note Pub
Enjoy a relaxing evening complete with locally brewed spirits at our upscale pub with full service bar. Dinner is also available here. "The Vault" room is available for private parties.

In 1866, the Anthony and Denhart Banking Company officially opened the back of the dry goods store and later moved into the new corner building. A vibrant and prosperous Washington Square served as cornerstone of post Civil War financial history as the bank continued in operation until the 1930's Depression.

Now listed on the federal Register of Historic Places, the newly renovated Inn is sure to take you back in time as you enjoy contemporary amenities and small town hospitality.