Nestled in the picturesque Catskill Mountains of Sullivan County, the Inn at Lake Joseph sits on more than 2,000 acres of pristine wilderness along Lake St. Joseph. The property’s story begins in the late 19th century when Thomas Hunt Talmage, a successful Brooklyn businessman, built an expansive summer retreat here. Sadly, Thomas passed away just before the completion of the Talmage House, leaving the estate to his family. A few years later, a group of Dominican Sisters from Long Island, seeking a peaceful retreat, stumbled upon the Talmage House. Mrs. Talmage sold the estate to the Sisters and became a lifelong supporter of their work. The Dominican Sisters transformed the property into a self-sustaining sanctuary, creating a convent, summer retreat, boarding and day school, children’s camps, farming facilities, a post office, and even a TB sanitarium. Their impact was so significant that local roads and train station were named in honor of their presence. These Sisters truly left a lasting mark on the Lake St. Joseph area, shaping its history and legacy for generations to come. The Talmage House became the famous Cardinal House, welcoming Cardinals Hayes, Spellman, and Cooke, as well as international dignitaries and celebrities, for more than 80 years. After a brief period under private development, the property awaited its next chapter as a welcoming retreat. In the early 1980s, travelers Ivan and Monique rediscovered the Talmage House and envisioned it as a country inn. They restored the property, preserving its history, tranquility, and charm, and opened it to guests in 1984. After Monique’s passing, Ivan and his wife Rue continued the legacy, hosting visitors from near and far.

In 2025 In 2025, Rom and Maria acquired the Inn at Lake Joseph, beginning a new chapter in the inn’s storied history. With five grown sons and a passion for hospitality, they have carefully renovated the inn and grounds, blending modern comforts with historic charm. Today, the Inn at Lake Joseph is a premier Catskills retreat offering cozy guest rooms and suites, a pristine lake for boating, fishing, and ample spaces for family gatherings, relaxation, and outdoor adventure. From peaceful mornings on the lake to cozy evenings by the fire, the inn continues to embody a philosophy of hospitality, friendship, and timeless comfort, making it the perfect destination for a serene getaway in the Catskills.