adventureswithapostcardThe Martha Washington Inn
On any drive down Abindon’s Main Street, you will notice a gorgeous 19th century building across from the Barter Theatre. This building is none other than the Martha Washington Inn & Spa, a historic hotel that offers many modern services and dazzles visitors with its charm.
History
The year was 1832. General Francis Preston decided after fighting in the War of 1812 that he wanted to retire somewhere. So he built a massive “retirement home” smack dab in the middle of Abingdon to house him, his wife, and nine children (I repeat, NINE CHILDREN). It was only in the family until 1858, when the building was sold and transformed into an “upscale college for young women”. During its run as a school, the Martha Washington saw its fair share of U.S. struggles, including the Civil War (where it transformed into a temporary hospital and the students became nurses and helped soldiers from both sides recover), World War I, and the Great Depression. Though the school was closed in 1932 as a result of the Depression, it only sat empty until 1935 when it reopened as a hotel and has stayed that way ever since.
Despite some modern renovations and enhancements, a lot of the Martha’s architecture and history has been preserved. According to their website, the lobby and central structure of the hotel is actually the original 1832 residence (just updated, of course). In fact, several of the antique pieces purchased way back when can still be found in the Inn and old pictures, letters, and other fun items decorate some walls to tell of the history.
Now
Today, the Martha Washington Inn & Spa is the full package of luxury in Abingdon. They provide a charming variety of rooms and boasts an impressive amount of amenities such as: a gorgeous pool, tennis courts, a library, mini golf courts, a delicious dining room, and a spa. The Sister’s American Grill, located in the Martha’s dining room, offers an array of tasty items that caters to every palette, while the Spa at Martha Washington will pamper you with massages, facials, manicure/pedicures, or whatever else your relaxation session requires. So whether you’re looking for a space to lay your head on a trip, a satisfying meal to curb your appetite, or a place to bring you to relaxation, the Martha Washington Inn & Spa is the place to go!
Dear…
The following is inscribed on the back of the “Historic Martha Washington Inn, Abingdon, VA”:
Postmarked July 8, 1948:
“Wednesday night.
We are staying at the above Inn tonight. We ate supper here + then went to the Barter Theatre to see “Voice of the Turtle”.
With love,
Sis”
According to this postcard, Abingdon was considered the “second healthiest town in America”, as of 1948. Kinda crazy that this small town could claim that. If anyone knows what the healthiest town was in 1948, I’m curious, since I couldn’t find it anywhere!
The Martha Washington Inn & Spa is surrounded by history, in and outside of its doors. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area, whether or not you’re staying there. The staff is friendly and will let you at least look around in the lobby if you ask nicely! So whether you’re looking for a space to lay your head on a trip, a satisfying meal to curb your appetite, or a place to bring you to relaxation, the Martha Washington Inn & Spa is the place to go!
To book a room, look at the menu, or gather any other information you may need about the Martha Washington Inn & Spa, visit their website at www.themartha.com!
*The quotes I used were taken from the Martha’s “History” page (found HERE). Don’t sue me!*
