The building housing MJ’s on the Avenue was built in 1760 in one of the oldest sections of the original village of Lansingburgh. The early Dutch style building built from hand-hewed beams, extensive stone work and Hudson River brick was established as an inn serving as a stagecoach stop-over for travelers on their way to Saratoga Springs. During the beginning of 1800’s, the building was owned by Augustus Filley who lived and worked here where he created the now famous Filley Tinware. When he died in 1845 the building was converted back into an inn and remained as such for the next 120 years.

The building’s history is rich with interesting stories.  Herman Melville, author of Moby Dick lived just a few doors down from this location. As one of the only barrooms in town, one wonders if he penned his notes sitting in this very place. In addition the building has been the home to town meetings, court proceedings, elections, barroom brawls and even one of the most reputable bordellos in the area. It is also believed the building is home to a number of ghosts; just ask any of us who have been here alone at night.

On December 15, 2006, MJ’s on the Avenue opened for business!