History

17 decades

Pine Cove Tavern was originally built in 1849. It is said that it may be the only cord home on the hill, in which the walls are constructed with 10” cord wood imbedded in concrete to seal and protect the building from harsh weather and insects. You will notice the cord wall detailing in both the living room area and master bedroom.

Over the last 170+ years, this structure has served the town in all sorts of ways. The property was originally built as a a stage-stop on the overland route from Banning. It is said that after legendary lawman, Wyatt Earp retired to San Bernardino, he would ride the stage up the mountain to play poker at the various stage-stops. Eventually, the property would become a stable for horses, a post office, a general store, the Summit Lodge, and Pine Cove Tavern for folks to enjoy a libation or two. In 1969, the Simpson Family took ownership and made it their home and place of business. The home doubled as an art gallery to exhibit Ron Simpson’s artwork and place, where visitors could get psychic readings from his wife, Annabelle.