The House NICHOLAS & RANDS: An American Bistro is located in the historic Lost River Valley in a restored 1820 federal farmhouse. A log home originally, built around 1800, it was expanded in 1810 and 1820. It consists of a three-bay porchfront, center-hall plan built with an L-shaped section, which contains the main dining room and kitchen at the rear. The private dining area is in the original 1800 section, through a door to the left of the staircase. The wine room is also located here, with its own fireplace. The house is constructed of wood, sided in clapboard, and roofed with tin. An extensive renovation and upgrade of utilities and plumbing focused on retaining the 200 year-old charm of the building. We chose authentic Colonial colors in our restoration, inside and out, as well as period fixtures and decorative elements. The Area Lost River's history is rich in personalities and details. The town is part of the Fairfax Grant, land granted to Lord Fairfax by King Charles II of England. The county was surveyed by George Washington when he was 16. Chartered in 1777, Moorefield is the fourth oldest town in what is now West Virginia. Hardy County was created from Hampshire County in 1786. Lost River was the site of many Indian battles during the French-Indian War. West Virginia became the 35th state of the Union on June 20, 1863— created in the midst of the Civil War. The Restaurant: In Memoriam What started as a dream for the late Frederick Nicholas and partner Earlé Rands became a reality in 2001 with the opening of their intimate-dining restaurant amidst the quiet life of the mountains. Unfortunately, Frederick passed away in March 2002, having realized his dream of owning his own restaurant. Now, Earlé carries that dream on anew, with the spring season, and hopes to continue the legacy that the two began. Earlé welcomes you to the Bistro and invites you to enjoy the natural beauty and rural hospitality of Lost River, West Virginia.