United States 12/24/2025 A century -old gambrel-roof barn in the heart of Southern Illinois wine country has opened its doors as Retreat at the Gambrel, offering overnight lodging and event space for groups seeking accommodations with character, history, and modern comfort. The property, located at 535 1/2 North Main Street in Jonesboro, marks the completion of an extensive restoration project that preserved the structure’s agricultural heritage while adding amenities that today’s travelers expect.
The opening addresses growing demand for lodging alternatives in Southern Illinois, where visitors increasingly seek properties with character rather than standard hotel rooms. Retreat at the Gambrel provides options for families, friend groups, workshop hosts, and faith-based gatherings looking for space to connect in a setting that feels set apart from daily life.
A Century of History Preserved
The barn featuring the gambrel roof style that defined agricultural construction in the early 20th century had stood on the Jonesboro property for over 100 years before its conversion to hospitality use. The structure served agricultural purposes throughout its working life, sheltering livestock and storing harvests through generations of farming in Union County.
Property owner Sue Brewer recognized the barn’s significance and partnered with contractor Bob on a restoration project guided by preservation principles. The work maintained original materials wherever structurally possible, keeping the character that a century of use had produced.
Original Materials Given New Purpose
Rather than discarding the barn’s original wood during restoration, the team repurposed these materials throughout the converted space. Custom-built vanities feature barn wood that witnessed a century of agricultural life. Tables where guests now gather incorporate timber that once formed the structure’s working spaces. Architectural details throughout the property connect guests to the building’s history through materials they can see and touch.
This approach to restoration cost more than standard renovation methods but produced results that guests experience from the moment they enter. The barn’s history remains visible and present rather than hidden behind new construction.
Modern Systems for Contemporary Comfort
While preservation guided aesthetic decisions, the restoration also addressed the practical requirements of hospitality. The property now includes climate control that maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, allowing bookings in summer heat and winter cold alike. Modern plumbing serves bathrooms designed for guest comfort. A full kitchen includes appliances, cookware, and dishes that support meal preparation for groups.
Technology infrastructure includes Wi-Fi throughout the property and entertainment options including a television with streaming capability. These additions serve guests who want character in their surroundings without sacrificing the connectivity and convenience they rely on at home.
The restoration balanced these modern additions against preservation goals, integrating new systems in ways that do not dominate the historic character. Guests enjoy comfort while experiencing atmosphere.
Accommodations & Capacity
Retreat at the Gambrel sleeps up to 10 guests in configurations suitable for various group types. Families gathering for reunions or celebrations find space for multiple generations. Friend groups traveling together can share accommodations rather than dispersing across hotel rooms. Workshop participants and retreat attendees can stay where they gather, extending programming throughout their time together.
The property’s open floor plan provides gathering space that supports group activities during daytime hours. This combination of sleeping capacity and event space makes the venue suitable for multi-day retreats that other lodging options cannot accommodate as effectively.
Overnight Stays & Event Hosting
The property operates primarily through overnight bookings available on Airbnb and VRBO. Weekend getaways, extended stays, and multi-day retreats all fit within the booking structure. The open interior also supports daytime events and workshops for groups seeking venue space with character.
Brewer brings decades of hospitality experience to the venture. Her background includes operating a tea room, participating in craft shows and markets, co-owning a lavender farm, and creating handmade items for retail sale. This experience in welcoming guests and creating meaningful spaces informs how the retreat approaches hosting.
Location in Wine Country
Retreat at the Gambrel sits within easy reach of over a dozen wineries along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. This positioning allows guests to explore Southern Illinois wine country with a home base for evenings and mornings. The property’s location also provides access to Shawnee National Forest, Giant City State Park, and other outdoor recreation destinations that draw visitors to the region.
Jonesboro and neighboring Anna serve as gateways to Southern Illinois attractions while maintaining the small-town character that visitors seek when escaping metropolitan pace. Local dining, shops, and services meet practical needs without the development that larger towns bring.
Regional Accessibility
St. Louis is approximately two hours away by car, making the property accessible for weekend trips from the metropolitan area. Indianapolis, Nashville, Louisville, and Chicago all sit within driving distance for travelers willing to make longer trips. This central positioning in the region makes Retreat at the Gambrel reachable for guests across the Midwest and upper South.
Amenities & Property Features
The property includes amenities that support comfortable stays for groups. The full kitchen allows for meal preparation ranging from simple breakfasts to elaborate dinners. An indoor gas fireplace provides a gathering atmosphere during cooler months. Central air conditioning maintains comfort through Southern Illinois summers.
Driveway parking accommodates multiple vehicles, eliminating the need for guests to find street parking or walk from distant lots. The property grounds provide outdoor space for morning coffee, evening conversation, or overflow gathering during pleasant weather.
Interior features include the panoramic loft views that the barn’s structure provides and design elements that honor the building’s history while ensuring comfort. Quality bedding supports restful sleep after days of activities or exploration.
Gift Certificates Available
For those wishing to give experiences rather than physical items, Retreat at the Gambrel offers gift certificates. These allow recipients to book stays at their convenience, providing flexibility for both givers and receivers.
Booking & Contact Information
Reservations for Retreat at the Gambrel can be made through Airbnb and VRBO. Guests can also contact the property directly for information about available dates, pricing, and specific accommodation questions.
For more information about the property, visit retreatatthegambrel.com or contact:
Sue Brewer Retreat at the Gambrel 535 1/2 N. Main St. Jonesboro, Illinois 62952 Phone: (618) 833-0222 Email: suebrewer50@gmail.com
About Retreat at the Gambrel
Retreat at the Gambrel is a restored 100-year-old barn in Jonesboro, Illinois, offering overnight accommodations and event space in Southern Illinois wine country. The property opened following extensive restoration work that preserved historic character while adding contemporary amenities. The retreat serves families, friend groups, workshop hosts, and faith-based gatherings seeking accommodations with history and heart. The property is owned and operated by Sue Brewer, a retired registered nurse with decades of experience in hospitality and creative ventures.
