Historic Bull Run Restaurant Receives $50K Grant for Renovations

The historic Bull Run Restaurant in Shirley, Massachusetts, has received a significant boost with a $50,000 grant from the Backing Historic Small Restaurants program. This funding is part of a nationwide initiative that awarded the same amount to 50 restaurants across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands to support renovations and business growth.

As the sole recipient of this grant in Massachusetts and one of only three in New England, the Bull Run will utilize the funds to enhance its facilities. Among the upgrades is a new ADA-compliant entryway that welcomes all guests into the nearly 300-year-old establishment. The renovations include a rebricked ADA ramp, a designated handicapped van parking space, and restoration of the porch columns and bluestone steps, along with newly added iron support railings.

“We are thrilled to receive this generous grant,” stated Alison Tocci, the innkeeper and co-owner of the Bull Run. “This grant helps us preserve not just a building, but the living history and hospitality that have connected generations.”

In addition to the grant funding, Resy, an American Express company, is waiving service fees for one year for each restaurant that received the grant, further supporting their operational needs.

Madge Thomas, head of corporate sustainability at American Express, emphasized the importance of preserving historical restaurants, stating, “What began as a pandemic response five years ago has grown into a powerful movement to preserve the historical restaurants that shape our neighborhoods and connect generations through food.”

The Bull Run Restaurant holds a significant place in local history, operating as a tavern since the 1700s. It was the first stop on the Boston-to-Albany Stagecoach route in the 1800s and is listed on the Massachusetts Register of Historic Buildings. The establishment is also noted for being a gathering site for local men who marched to Concord and Lexington at the onset of the Revolutionary War over 250 years ago.

“Restaurants like the Bull Run demonstrate the power that places hold. For generations, neighbors have gathered here, shared stories, made new connections, and enjoyed regional cuisine that often reflects our nation’s global roots,” remarked Carol Quillen, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

The Bull Run has seen various names throughout its history. Since the Guercio family of Shirley purchased the restaurant in 1946, they have maintained the name Bull Run and transformed the upstairs bedrooms into private dining spaces. Currently, it operates as a full-service farm-to-table restaurant, event venue, and live music location, frequently featuring nationally recognized artists.

As the restaurant prepares to celebrate 80 years of family ownership in 2026, Tocci reflects on her upbringing in a creative environment. “For four generations now, we’ve stayed true to our mission to offer great food and great entertainment for an ever-changing audience with diverse tastes,” she remarked.

Featured on January 16, 2024, was comedian Michael Kosta from “The Daily Show,” who performed at the Bull Run, showcasing the venue’s commitment to providing a vibrant entertainment experience. Tocci expressed her gratitude for the grant funding, describing the experience as “amazing.”

For those interested in visiting the Bull Run Restaurant or checking out its lineup of upcoming events, more information is available at bullrunrestaurant.com and through their social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.