The Century Inn (James Thompson Inn) was built in 1818 by James Thompson, a member of one of Middlefield's first pioneer families. It served as a stopover for travelers between Warren and Painesville. The Inn is located on Rt. 608 (South State Avenue) just south of the intersection with Rt. 87.

Occupied continuously as inn, boarding house, or private home until purchased by Garland and Margaret Shetler for use as a printing company, the building was a hub of community activity. Used as a site for town meetings, it also served on several occasions as a hospital for injured travelers on the Old State Road.

In 1983 the Village of Middlefield purchased the inn and leased it to the Historical Society for their headquarters. In July 1987, the Inn became listed on the National Register as "Batavia House" and by October 1988, the Society had raised the $60,000 for its purchase.

In 1997, two rooms on the main floor were dedicated to house the Shetler Library and the Margaret Shetler Reading Room. The present library was an office supply store during the Shetler Printing period.

The cement block addition to the back of the Inn housed the printing presses for the Shetler Printing Company. This area, now known as The Underloft, is available for rent for public or family events. White tables and comfortable chairs have been purchased. A warming kitchen and a handicapped-accessible restroom are contained within the area.

The Society is looking forward to the installation of its historical marker to be placed on the Inn's property. The markers project is in conjunction with Ohio's bicentennial celebration in 2003. Money to purchase the marker was obtained by the Society through a garage sale which was held in May of 2001. So much enticing "stuff" was donated by the public that not only was the historical marker completely funded but also two pieces of antique furniture were beautifully refurbished for the Inn's parlor.

The Middlefield Historical Society is a member of the Geauga County Tourism Council.