The Renovation

Renovation:

Re-open in Summer 2021 –the 100th Anniversary of the filming of Tol’able David.

While this is an aggressive timeline and adds pressure to the fundraising effort, it can be beneficial in creating a sense of urgency with donors,  emphasizing the critical nature of the project and the importance of having the Inn off-line for the shortest possible timeframe.​

​For many years the Inn has served as a first job for young people.  We’ve captured stories from a 90+ year old man who was employed as a bellhop in the 30’s.  And, we all know people who’ve cooked, waitressed, or worked in some capacity at the Inn. Formalizing this rich history into internships and apprenticeships with culinary/hospitality programs is desirable step, making out project attractive to agencies with whom we have spoken about potential grants. The hospitality workforce development component has been identified in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS) for Bath and Highland counties.

The Inn is on the National Register of Historic Places and The Virginia Landmarks Register. It will be open for historic tours to the public.

Operations of the Inn:

​The current condition of the Inn makes operation impossible until the renovation is complete. This fact actually simplifies the renovation process, since necessary work can be done any time, day or night.

The Blue Grass Resource Center has no desire to operate the Inn, but rather intends to identify an appropriate skilled operator.  This could take several forms, and discussions are already underway with potential entities.