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Thomas Shepherd Inn

ed and breakfast at The Thomas Shepherd Inn is far more than a comfortable and convenient pillow for a night and sustenance for the new day. It is a special way of life. It is to step into the graciousness of the hospitable past, to bask in the glow of a friendly fireside, to enjoy the hospitality of people as it was more than a century ago. It is to savor the historic heritage, the architectural wonders, the college-town aura, the relaxed tempo of West Virginia's oldest community.

It is to surround yourself with reminders of the past: a grist mill built by Thomas Shepherd in 1738, still boasting the largest overshot wheel (1880) in the world; a monument (1915) to James Rumsey, inventor of the world's first steamboat; a Public Library of local history, previously the Old Market House (I 880), firehouse, town hall, and jail house. It is to find yourself only minutes from such national landmarks as the Antietam Battlefield; Harpers Ferry; and the C&O Canal and Towpath, a favorite spot for joggers and bicyclists.

It is to enjoy the present-the landscape of the lower Shenandoah Valley, the changing seasons along the Skyline Drive, the challenge of whitewater, the rigors of the Appalachian Trail. It is you, rod, and reel trying to catch that elusive bass in one of the nearby waterways. It is the hunt for authentic antiques or original and intriguing arts and crafts; a walk down German Street, where the finest in amenities and furnishings for the home can be found. It is a visit to the Historic Shepherdstown Museum, or enjoying the cultural events of the Millbrook Orchestra and Shepherd College's Contemporary American Theater Festival. And last, but not least...

It is the enjoyment of the Inn itself; to visit with innkeeper Lori Capettini; to sit down to a leisurely gourmet breakfast; to indulge in a romantic dinner with that special someone; to sip sherry in front of a crackling fire; to relax; to unwind.

Thomas Shepherd obtains a 222 acre land grant in 1734, but the birth of Mecklenburg, Virginia (1762) is delayed by the French and Indian War. Renamed to "Shepherd's Town" in 1798, the present name of "Shepherdstown" is established in 1820. Famous for the Revolutionary War's Bee Line March, the town becomes make-shift hospitals as the South retreats from the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War.

It's 1868. The guns are silent, the nation reunited. Shepherdstown is part of a new state and soon to be acknowledged as West Virginia's oldest community. Peace, tranquility, friendliness, and small town hospitality prevail. It's time to build. And build they did, contributing immeasurably to an already rich heritage. The Inn, a mid-19th century Federal architecture, originates as the Lutheran Church's parsonage on land once owned by Thomas Shepherd.

Once the office and home of some highly regarded local physicians in 1937, in 1984 the property is painstakingly restored and refurnished to match the decor and ambiance of its period. Opening its doors as a Bed & Breakfast establishment, the Inn's setting offers one a not-to-be-forgotten experience. Lori looks forward to meeting and entertaining you, or even better, welcoming you back for another memorable experience.

The Thomas Shepherd Inn offers six spacious air conditioned and delightfully furnished guest rooms, with private bath. A living room, two formal dining rooms, library, and porch are to be shared and enjoyed by all guests. All of this, along with breakfast, cordiality, and hospitality is yours at The Thomas Shepherd Inn.

Specially prepared dinners and picnic lunches are available for an additional tarif. Lori would be delighted to help you arrange and enjoy your stay. The Thomas Shepherd Inn is a very special part of the community, and your phone call, e-mail or letter is welcomed.

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