Before the construction of recognised outlets, the supply of alcohol was usually undertaken by local merchants with the main beverage being the trusty old Rum which was undoubtedly selected for its "miles to the gallon" value.

Following the destruction of the Tranter's Inn in 1900, James Marks, began dispensing the amber fluid from his store which was situated in an area near the North West corner of the present day Hotel yard.

On 23rd November, 1901 a Publican's License was granted to James Marks of Bigga. The License was issued in the Carcoar Licensing District and the original premises was known as the Federal Hotel. Shortly after the issue of the License, a building was transported from Junction Point and erected to the West of the existing building. This building was to serve as the Federal Hotel for many years until it was replaced by the new premises in 1936.

Bigga's first licensed Publican, James Marks in front of the Federal Hotel.

James Marks remained as Mine Host until 1913 when the Business transferred to Stan McCloskey. McCloskey was followed by Allan Howard (1921), Charles King (1922-1926), George Ferguson (1927, Rueben Corby (1928-1929), John Evans (1930-1932), Charles King (1933-1935 and E.C. Johnson (1936).

View Showing the new Hotel and part of the original building taken 1962.

Shortly after purchasing the Business from Charles King, the Johnson family constructed the present day premises which by any standards would have been a magnificent building, consider the fact that today, it is over 70 years old. It is still the most impressive building in the township.

Following the construction of the new building, the old Hotel remained on its original site until it was demolished in 1965.

During its life time, the Federal Hotel has provided a very valuable service to the community, not only as a Hostelry, but as a meeting place and the organisational centre of most of the sporting bodies, which operated within the area.