History

The history of Edith Ruhl's home begins in 1907 when the land was deeded to her. In 1910, Dr. Ruhl reportedly started the construction of a two-story home. The second story was built under the eaves with four dormers jutting out from the steep roof to let in sunlight and air.

Floranna was born in 1912 in the downstairs bedroom. Many pictures, lovingly taken by her parents, of Floranna growing up in the home are on display at the Inn today.

Who Was Dr. A.M. Ruhl?

Historian, Stan Hoig in his book, Edmond, The Early Years, relates that Dr. A.M. Ruhl came to Edmond from LoganCounty in 1895 when he was nineteen years old. His father, Dr. Noah B. Ruhl followed him to Edmond in 1896. Dr. Ruhl was one of the first physicians and surgeons in our territorial community. Records also show that he served as City Councilman from 1908 to 1909. His interest and involvement in the Normal School, now the University of Central Oklahoma, is found in a family heirloom, a stadium blanket, that says Dr. A.M. Ruhl, Team Physician.

Architecturally, the building became more interesting in 1928 when Dr. Ruhl decided to enlarge his home. He proceeded to have it "jacked-up" twelve feet to have a new first floor and basement added.

Two back porches were enclosed at that time also. Floranna reports that her mother, Edith, was quite upset when they put the house back down on the new construction. This kind of construction was not that customary and still today is hard to imagine. The end result was a magnificent three-story stucco home with eighty windows and a grand wrap-around front porch.

Some believe the home was a hospital and clinic for Dr. Ruhl's patients but Floranna disputes that story saying it was only their family home. Prescription labels list his clinic address as 105 1/2 South Broadway, Edmond, Oklahoma.

Dr. Ruhl only lived eight years after he started the enlargement of their home. He died at the age of 60 in 1936. He is buried alongside Edith, who died much later in the 1970's, in GracelawnCemetery in north Edmond. His parents, Dr. and Mrs. Noah B. Ruhl are buried there also.

In 1989, Edith and the Dr.'s home was looking very poorly on the outside and gutted to the stud walls on the inside. The Hall’s purchased the shell and rebuilt it into a magnificent home and Inn.  Gary and Martha Hall and their children, Mark 7 years old and Stephen, 2 years old,  moved into Dr. Ruhl’s home in 1990 and opened the Arcadian Inn Bed & Breakfast. 

In 1996, the Arcadian Inn enlarged to take in  Rev. Toole’s home to the west.  Rev. Toole came to Edmond in 1907 after his wife passed away.  His tiny home has been added onto many time and now has all of the offices, gift shoppe and utility areas of the Arcadian Inn plus the Captain’s Quarters and Magnolia Suite.

Built with pride in Edmond many years ago, the Arcadian Inn at First and University stands now as a renowned Inn with dignity.  Many guests have made forever memories and ties with the Arcadian Inn. 

Named the Arcadian Inn, meaning a quiet, pastoral retreat where one can relax with first-class hospitality and charm and experience the artful life of Edmond.

Arcadian Inn Bed & Breakfast

Historical Home of Dr. A.M. Ruhl, M.D.

328 East First, Edmond, Ok. 73034     405-348-6347   800-299-6347

and  Aaron’s Gate Country Getaway

  Country Home of Gary and Martha Hall and family

Guthrie, Ok. 73044     405-282-0613   877-540-1300