German man Hans Lof built the original building that later became known as Tom’s Place in 1917. It started as a gas station and then was expanded. Thomas and Hazel Yerby purchased the property in 1923. They added a lodge in 1924. The area began attracting tourists who wanted to fish and visit Yosemite.
After Tom Yerby died in 1940, Hazel continued to run the place until 1945 when she sold it. Around this time, the highway was paved making it easier to access the area. In 1947, the lodge burned down.
After changing hands for several years, Mark and Michelle Layne purchased the property in January 2000, and they continue to run it to the present.
Historical Marker Inscription
This way-station, rest area and resort has served the residents and visitors of the Eastern Sierra for over 100 years.
Originally built and managed by Hands Lof, it operated as a seasonal cafe, bar, gas station, pack station and camp ground from 1917 to 1923 when it was purchased by Tom and Hazel Yerby.
The Yerbys improved and expanded the facilities with the construction of guest cabins and a full service lodge in 1924 (sadly the lodge burned down in 1947).
With the grading and paving of Hwy 23 (the predecessor of US-395) it became a year-round destination resort town known as – Tom’s Place. In 1961 a post office was established here and operated for several years.
After the death of Tom Yerby, the resort was sold and over the years it changed hands several times. However its popularity did not diminish and the name remained the same.
Today, the current owners maintain the hospitality and ambiance started by its founders. Thus ensuring Tom’s Place will remain a Mono County landmark for the next 100 years.
Dedicated
September 9, 2017
Bodie Chapter No 65
B Clampus Vitus
Location
8180 Crowley Lake Drive, Crowley Lake California 93546
37.5613° N, 118.6812° W
Historical Markers of the World 