Return to the Home Page Louise Harrison, her Scottish husband, and two children came to Benton, Illinois in 1963 and found lodging at a motel. As her husband had taken a job in the area, Louise promptly called a realtor to find a home for her family. The family funds consisted of a two-dollar bill and a five-pound note. By the end of that day, the realtor had found a home and had helped secure a loan from the local bank. Neighbors provided furniture and food. To this day, Louise sings the praises of Benton's hospitality. During that autumn of 1963, Louise's two brothers, George and Peter, came to the U.S. from England for a vacation. George Harrison knew fame as a musician in Europe but was unknown in this country at that time. George spent his time here sitting in with local musicians, picnicking, and enjoying the local sites. He was especially fond of the fast-food drive-in. George returned to Europe in September of 1963, only to return to the U.S. with the Beatles in February of 1964 to appear on The Ed Sullivan Show. The rest, of course, is history! The house itself was built around 1930 by descendants of explorer Merriweather Lewis. In 1994, the house was purchased by the State of Illinois and was scheduled for demolition to build a parking lot. A group of local residents became concerned that this piece of history would be lost forever. At the last moment, before demolition took place, they purchased the house. The house was restored to resemble the decor, much as it was during that summer of 1963 during George's visit. The Hard Days Nite Bed and Breakfast opened for business in 1996. |