The Deerhead Inn began in 1925 as Woody’s Fish Fry, a small building behind the current site.  In 1929, Fred and Lena Morehouse purchased the land and erected the building much as we see it today. They named the new business, after a sportsmen’s restaurant located in Big Moose Station, Adirondacks (The Adirondack version closed its doors in 1986.) The Deerhead originally specialized in fish fries and pumped gas in front of the buildings. 
    This was also the period of Prohibition (1920-1933) and from ’29 to ’33, the Deerhead was known as a “Speakeasy”, where locals would imbibe.  After Prohibition, in June, 1934, the business obtained a beer license and in 1946 a full liquor license.  The Morehouse’s son, Allyn, took over the family business in 1939, but closed the doors November 1, 1942 to serve in World War II.  Allyn’s parents reopened the business in 1943 until he returned home in 1946 to take over. 
    In the 1970’s the Deerhead was favorite hangout for Eisenhower College students and staff until the college closed in 1981. In 1983, the building was purchased and restored by Jim Gustafson.  The porch was renovated and heated to allow comfortable dining year round. The porch was enlarged to its current size by an addition in 1988. 
    In the mid 90’s the back Dining Room was added to accommodate private parties. In 1991, the Eisenhower campus was reopened as the New York Chiropractic College and once again, the inn is a welcome diversion from academics. The restaurant also draws a large summer business from the Cayuga Lake State Park campgrounds, boaters and fishermen. In 1992 the house directly across from the inn was purchased to provide boat docking for patrons.

    The Gustafson family is proud to begin their 25^th year as your hosts and would like to emphasize our comfortable local atmosphere and friendly service.  We thank you for your patronage.