From residents to out-of-towners, many of those who have found themselves in Nappanee, Indiana, know something is special at one of the city’s most distinguished homes.
The Frank and Katherine Coppes house, located at 302 East Market Street near the heart of downtown, is a residence of considerable clout, and one that harbors a storied legacy. The historic Queen Anne mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and has been owned and lovingly tended by the Kenton and Emily Hostetler family since 2022.
Their stewardship is the latest of many caretakers who have recognized and respected the historic integrity of the home, which once sheltered one of Nappanee’s pioneering industrial families. Frank Coppes, along with his brother, John, are the founders of the Coppes Napanee enterprise, now esteemed as one of the oldest kitchen cabinetry manufacturers in the world. The company dates back to 1876, and has retained its name as a nod to an original spelling of the city in which it began.
The Hostetlers have christened the home as the Market Street Manor, which they have successfully operated as a bed-and-breakfast facility, taking the reins from previous longtime owners, Bruce and Vickie Hunsberger. The Hostetlers are also the proprietors of the Farmhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast, also located in Nappanee. Together they have created a pair of magnificent retreats for folks with a heart for history and heritage.
Most recently, the Market Street Manor has added a new feature to its slate of accommodations and activities. The family is proud to unveil the introduction of the Market Street Manor Tea House.
Emily Hostetler said that in the relatively short time that this concept has been launched, it has been well-received. “We offer traditional tea parties and lunches, including salads, paninis and soups,” she said. Other delicacies that can be incorporated into the tea party motif range from scones to petite sandwiches to miniature versions of sweets. Hot tea is always the specialty, in keeping with the dainty nature of the occasion – no coffee on this menu.
Guests are welcome to visit and create their own unique spin on the tea party experience, nestled in a bright, spacious living room area, and surrounded by the rich and robust history of the Coppes family. Emily Hostetler can help plan the event with specific menu items and suggestions, either through a spontaneous arrangement or by reservation. The settings can also be themed to reflect the various seasons. Guests can currently stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Reservations are preferred but not required.
The Hostetlers are very willing to incorporate new suggestions and add to the format of the Tea House as time goes on. “If any new ideas come to us, as far as adding dinners in the evenings and such, we would definitely consider it,” Hostetler said with a smile. “Our vision for the house is not only for the Tea House for locals and tourists to enjoy a traditional tea party, but also for our business community to have a semiformal setting for lunches and business meetings.”
To connect with the Hostetlers about hosting a tea party or other similar types of events, contact Emily Hostetler at 574-536-7450, or visit their website for booking details and photos at hisbedandbreakfast.com.
