Constructed in 1901, this plain brick building was the polling place and meeting hall for Ann Arbor’s Second Ward. It served the German neighborhood now known as the Old West Side. John and Mary Hathaway bought it from the city in 1969 and kept it mostly as it was. They added vintage chairs, tables, and other furnishings, selected for their local connections and authentic character (see photo gallery).
Original Mission and Current Philosophy
In 1973 John Hathaway articulated his idea for a civic goal he had in mind for this space: “We need discussion groups where diverse kinds of people interested in each other as well as the community can get together to laugh, criticize, make suggestions and generate community attitude and spirit.”
John Hathaway personally oversaw the Building until he suffered a stroke in 1991. Mary shared the responsibility of running the venue with John until his death in 2001. She then managed the facility for another 18 years until her death in 2019. The space is now overseen by John and Mary’s son Will.
This is the place where we have enjoyed good times with our family and friends. We feel it is part of our home. We also like to make the Building available to groups with whom we feel a personal connection or a shared goal – thus continuing its historic role in Ann Arbor’s public life. It is a good place to hold meetings. We sometimes loan the space to friends for private use, however, we are very cautious about loaning the space for parties or any type of public performances or events (see FAQ page).
Location and Costs
Located in downtown Ann Arbor near the intersection of Liberty and Ashley (a few doors south of the Fleetwood Diner and Blimpy Burger), 310 South Ashley is an historic, two-story, brick building with spaces for meetings and events. Nicknamed “Hathaway’s Hideaway,” the building has three levels: basement, street level, and second floor. There is no elevator. There is a handicap-accessible restroom on the first floor. Smoking is NOT permitted. There is no reserved parking, but the City-operated “Kline’s” parking lot is located directly across Ashley Street.
Use of the building is by approval of Will Hathaway. There is a suggested donation per event participant – currently $6 per person. A separate, refundable damage deposit of $1,000 is required. The security deposit insures clean-up and return of keys and helps to protect against any costly damage that may occur. An application form and rules for use of the space can be found on this website. Please direct correspondence to Will Hathaway using the contact form.