My cousin and I were born a month apart and have always been very close, more like sisters than cousins. From time to time we get away for a girls weekend and recently met in Durham, NC to spend the weekend in a historic bed and breakfast. This weekend was planned to get my mind off of turning the BIG "50", I've been dreading this one!
THE KING'S DAUGHTERS INN
The King's Daughter's Inn faces the Trinity College of Duke University. Brodie Duke owned the land that is now Trinity Park and he donated some land and $500 to build the early 1900's residence that accommodated 16 residents to live in what was for a while referred to as "The Old Ladies' Home." The Kings Daughter's Inn was a place for single older women who were alone, never married, or widowed having noone to take care of them.
Much has happened from then to now. The Inn was was purchased by Colin and Deanna Crossman in 2007 with a vision to restore the lovely Inn and reopen it as a Bed and Breakfast. They made restoration plans that took a year or so and then completely renovated the property within 36 weeks!
Deanna, with her remarkable smile, greets you as you check in and will also prepare a scrumptious breakfast made special for you! Such a kind and warm person, and she's really fun to talk to. Being that she was also the general contractor for the entire renovation, if you have any questions about decor or paint colors, just ask. Deanna is happy to help with anything you'd like to know!
Lets get to it, I can't wait to share this place with you.
All the lower windows you see are in the Sunroom which is located on the right side of the Inn.
As you enter the double front door is this cute umbrella holder.
Just couldn't resist showing you that, now back to the tour.
Just inside the front doors you step up into the main hall.
To the left is the grand staircase with a beautiful chandelier.
Beside the staircase is the dining area.
For breakfast you'll find an offering of coffee, juice and tea along with a delightful array of fresh fruit, yogurt, and secret recipe homemade muffins and scones. But don't get too full, because once you take your seat you'll be asked, "What's your pleasure"? Waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, and the list goes on. It's all yummy!
Pretty vignettes as we head to the sitting room.
The sitting room is beautiful.
Deanna has decorated in a way that pays tribute to the historic charm of the Inn, and has added a little modern touch too!
There are game tables along the front windows.
Just outside the sitting room is this little nook.
This is the sunroom.
My pictures don't do any of these rooms any justice! The sun room is quaint, cozy and RELAXING! Notice the hot tea on the table?
Hot tea is another sweet thing Deanna loves to do for her guests.
What's your flavor, she asks? Sit back, relax and enjoy!
Through these windows you can see Trinity College and the walking trail that surrounds it. Twice around makes for a 3 mile stroll or jog.
I could sit all day in this sun room, but I guess it's time to head down the hall to the guest rooms.
This pretty planter was at the entrance to our room.
Hope you enjoyed touring this part of the Inn, more coming soon!