News Summary
The Carolina Bed and Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, combines rich history with Southern charm. Built in 1901, the Arts and Crafts-style home has ties to celebrity jeweler David Webb and is rumored to host ghostly encounters, particularly that of former resident Daphne Brown. This enchanting B&B offers guests a unique blend of comfort and history, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and stories from the past.
Historic Carolina Bed and Breakfast: A Blend of Charm and Celebrity
In the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, sits the enchanting Carolina Bed and Breakfast, a delightful spot steeped in history and local lore. Located at 177 Cumberland Ave, this marvelous establishment beckons travelers with its unique blend of cozy charm and fascinating stories, particularly its ties to the world of luxury jewelry.
Architectural Marvel
The main house of the bed and breakfast is a charming Arts and Crafts-style home built all the way back in 1901. Designed by none other than Richard Sharp Smith, who also served as the supervising architect at the illustrious Biltmore Estate, the house is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and distinctive design. What sets it apart? Well, no two rooms are alike, and guests will find that the doorways and architectural elements vary from one area to another, creating an experience that feels like an imaginative journey through history.
A Tale of Two Families
Initially, the home was intended for Maria Brown, but things took a turn when her brother, Vance Brown, and his wife Daphne moved in instead. Over the years, the couple raised five children within these walls, turning the home into a bustling hub of family life. However, their story took a somber note when Daphne passed away in 1916. Since then, guests have reported supernatural encounters, including sightings of her ghost, who some believe still roams the halls today. The bed and breakfast owner, Diana Thornton, claims that Daphne delights in playing tricks, such as opening doors and flickering lights—a spooky touch for guests seeking thrills!
From Boarding House to Jewelry Empire
Fast forward to the 1930s, when the home was sold to Elizabeth and George Webb. In need of income during the Great Depression, this couple transformed the residence into a boarding house. It was during this time that a young and ambitious jewelry designer, David Webb, made the tiny, pebbledash cottage behind the main house his first workshop. Webb began his career crafting copper ashtrays and dogwood pins, selling them on the lively streets of Asheville. The spark ignited his passion for jewelry design, and he soon left for New York City, where he opened a storefront at just 23 years old.
Rise to Stardom
David Webb’s unique pieces quickly became favorites for many Hollywood icons, including the likes of Grace Kelly, Jackie O., and Elizabeth Taylor. His designs charmed high-profile clients and even landed a commission from John F. Kennedy to create official Gifts of State in 1962. One of his most iconic creations, colorful enamel animal cuffs, stole the hearts of many, especially Elizabeth Taylor’s. Webb’s life was tragically cut short in 1975 from pancreatic cancer, but his legacy lives on through his jewelry house, which boasts an incredible archive of over 40,000 original designs.
Modern Comforts with a Historical Twist
Today, guests at the Carolina Bed and Breakfast can enjoy a cozy stay in the former workshop of David Webb, transformed into a stylish guest room equipped with modern amenities. Visitors are not only treated to the comforts of home but can also immerse themselves in the rich history of the area. Every corner of this establishment tells a tale, and the ghostly charm adds to the allure, making the bed and breakfast a unique stop for travelers seeking more than just a place to rest their heads.
Visit and Experience the Magic
If you’re ever in Asheville and find yourself craving a bit of history, charm, and perhaps a ghostly encounter or two, look no further than the Carolina Bed and Breakfast. It promises an adventure laden with stories about its remarkable past and the enigmatic presence that still lingers through its halls, all wrapped up in that warm Southern hospitality we’re famous for. Don’t miss this charming escape that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of our city!
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Additional Resources
- AVLTODAY: A Famous Jeweler’s Asheville Roots
- Only In Your State: Cozy Inn and Restaurant in NC
- News Observer: North Carolina News
- Wikipedia: Asheville, North Carolina
- Greenville Online: Historic Bed and Breakfast
- World Atlas: Serene Towns in North Carolina
