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 have kept it mostly as it was. Vintage chairs, tables, and other furnishings have been selected for their local connections and authentic character. This is the
place where we have 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 are very cautious about loaning the space for parties or any type of public performances or events. 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.”
Located in downtown Ann Arbor near the intersection of Liberty and Ashley (a few doors south of the Fleetwood Diner and, now, 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. There is a handicap-accessible restroom on the first floor. Smoking is NOT permitted. Use of the building is by approval of Will Hathaway. There is a suggested donation per event participant - currently $4 per person. A separate, refundable damage deposit is required to insure clean-up and return of keys. There is currently no website for the Hideaway besides this page. Application forms and rules for use of the space are available upon request. Please direct correspondence to Will Hathaway. His email is [email protected].
