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From the approach, the native sandstone structure looms large, a castle in the mountains of West Virginia. A massive display of turrets, columns, roof lines and stained glass first greet the eye. The exterior of Graceland is truly magnificent. It is the interior of the Queen Anne style mansion, however, that takes the breath away. Cold stone turns to the warmest wood, exquisitely carved into angels, ribbons and beads. Carved columns support the fireplace mantel, beams cross the ceiling and a huge sweeping stair leads to the balcony of the mezzanine above, where soft light filters in through the gorgeous stained glass. It is no surprise that Henry Gassaway Davis, who owed much of his fortune to the timber industry, would garnish his home with such a lavish display. Davis was elected West Virginia's first Democratic U.S. Senator in 1871, and occupied Graceland in 1893. Though the name is well suited for such gracious splendor, the senator's summer home was named after his youngest daughter, Grace. Enjoyed by two generations of the Davis family, the building and immediate grounds became part of Davis and Elkins College in 1941. The college counts Graceland as one of seven historic structures on its campus, including Halliehurst. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1996, the Davis family's summer retreat has been painstakingly and lovingly restored to its original grandeur and converted to an inn of exceptional elegance. A learning lab for college students in the tourism management program, Graceland Inn invites guests to experience the artistry and ambiance of days gone by. Each of the eleven guest rooms features a different floor plan and unique period furnishings. Fine dining is the hallmark of the Mingo Room, serving lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. A spacious veranda looks down on Elkins and the railroad depot, like the senator himself, smiling down on his legacy. -- KC || Order your FREE West Virginia Magazine | Request FREE regional travel information | Locator Map | Back to the top | Take me home ||
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