It was a dark and chilly Thanksgiving night as we drove down St. Marks Place searching for Magnolia House, reading house numbers as best we could, when suddenly a figure loomed out of the dark, flagging us down. Quickly introducing himself as our innkeeper he directed us to a parking spot nearby. Now that’s pretty darn welcoming!
After helping us with our luggage including, Arlo, our Miniature Schnauzer, we were quickly settled into our rooms where a wood fire crackled on the hearth. After a tour of the suite and amenities and a brief get acquainted conversation, Danforth excused himself and we settled in for a comfortable and pleasant sleep.
It’s appropriate to remark here that the decor reflected the globe trotting tastes of the proprietors, with fascinating carvings, paintings, furniture and more, a richness of artistry and craftsmanship.
In the morning as soon as we opened the door Arlo took off for the kitchen on the floor below where we heard him being welcomed. We arrived on his heels and met Darwin as a substantial and well prepared breakfast was served and a very pleasant conversation ensued. Repeat, Repeat.
The neighborhood, largely Victorian era styled homes, with, of course, some larger more recent buildings is relatively quiet as Arlo and I found on our walks, views of Manhattan across New York Harbor from in the house and walking along the North Shore Waterfront Esplanade Park. With a weekend long family visit including West Coast elements we spent most of our time in the immediate area, and enjoyed good dining opportunities.
We certainly enjoyed all aspects of our visit, lodgings and the Richmond area and our breakfasts with splendid hosts Dan and Darwin.