History of The Wilbur & The Roost

May 1893: Melissa L. Clement (1833-1903), a native of New York, bought a lot on the south side of West Porter for $175

1952: Wilbur C. Wisnasky and his neighbor on Martin Avenue, Lehman Parker, built an eight-unit motel on the property. Mr. Wisnasky named these flat-roofed, concrete buildings "Wilbur's Motel," and advertised his establishment with the slogan, "Come For A Season or Come For A Day.”

Spring of 1997: Jake Jacobs, Dave Cole, and Tommy Capers took to transforming the old E.E. Clement place into what came to be Ocean Springs' popular restaurant, The Porter House.

2016: We decided this beautiful building needed to be showcased once more to the many locals and visitors to Ocean Springs. Renovations began in June 2016 with The Roost opening its doors to the public in April 2017. The utmost care was taken in restoring and celebrating this building's cultural heritage. From maintaining the majestic oak trees to salvaging the original wood accented throughout the building, our mission has been to highlight this significantly historical landmark in the heart of Ocean Springs.

June 2018: We expanded to include 5 additional guest suites and The Wilbur, a craft cocktail and wine bar.

August 2021: We expanded once again to add an additional 8 luxury guest suites and an outdoor heated pool.