The closing of the King George Inn in South Whitehall after 42 years was "traumatic, like a death in the family," owner Cliff McDermott said in a Morning Call story.

He said revenue from the historic restaurant had been declining for years but he put off closing his business out of pride. While the weak economy played a role, McDermott lamented that he failed to keep up with the times.

For example, while his restaurant still used linen table clothes and napkins that cost $1,200 to launder, more people today are choosing the casual dining atmosphere of the grille and pub variety, he said.

The landmark restaurant at Cedar Crest and Hamilton boulevards had a storied history, serving weary travelers as a crossroads tavern even before the Revolutionary War. Built in 1756, it has been designated a National Historic Site by the National Park Service.