Take a Walk Through Thyme
The Bowman House invites you to relax and enjoy the historical aesthetics of our home throughout your stay in the quaint mountain town of Waynesboro, Virginia. Your stay with us is part of your travel experience. We are a certified Tourist Attraction. Take a walk back through Thyme with our signature dishes. Fresh ingredients including home-grown herbs are a staple here. We will do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Please let us know in advance if you have any requests.
Dr. Carl and Nettie Bowman
Built in 1910, Carl and Nettie Bowman made their lives here and had a daughter they named Virginia. After some time, the Bowmans relocated and the Truslows were the new owners for a decade. In 1978, the home was sold to Waynesboro Mayor, city attorney, Fishburne Military School graduate, and author, JB Yount III, who cared for the home and property for years until his old age. After he passed, the Nicols family purchased this historical home from the estate to do some cosmetic repairs and rejuvenation before selling it to us, the Smith family. Being only the fifth family to own his beautiful home, we are honored to provide this bed and breakfast to our travelers and community members while maintaining the historical integrity of the home. The same builder of the pristine Swannanoa mansion in nearby Afton, M. Ree Ellis also built The Bowman House, a Classical Revival style solid brick home with monumental fluted iconic columns.
Wayne Avenue
A century ago, Wayne Avenue was where the wealthy lived and was the most exclusive neighborhood in the city of Waynesboro. A mule drawn trolley would bring the summer resort crowd along this street to the Brunswick Inn. The Brunswick Inn is no longer standing, but the beautiful homes and mansions pay homage to the rich history of the area. One home that exemplifies this rich history of the area is the Bowman House.
The Bowman House is located at 611 S. Wayne Avenue. This beautiful home was built in the Classical Revival style. It has four fluted columns that are unusually large in size that adds a sense of grandeur to the facade of this lovely home.
A Glimpse into History and Hospitality
The Bowman House with its warm, inviting atmosphere, is steeped in stories that span generations, offering guests a unique glimpse into the past. Our historic inn is not just a charming place to stay, but also a gateway into the rich tapestry of local history.
The Legacy of Carl Bowman
One of our most treasured stories revolves around Carl Bowman, affectionately known as “Doc” or “Uncle Doc” to his great-nieces and great-nephews. Carl was a well-respected figure in the community and a beloved family member. His influence extended beyond his immediate family, with many recalling fond memories of their time spent with him.
Carl’s sister, Lillian, married into the Goodall family, and their descendants have maintained a connection to the Bowman legacy. Each year, the Goodall family reunion takes place on a Saturday in June at Mt. Zion Church in Oak Park, VA. This event brings together relatives from both sides of the family, celebrating their shared heritage and recalling cherished memories of Carl, who often took the girls to lunch at the historic General Wayne Hotel, still standing today.
Artifacts of a Bygone Era
In our commitment to preserving history, we are excited to announce that we are acquiring some of Carl Bowman’s original dental equipment, including his foot-operated dental drill, autoclave, and his distinctive dental chair. These items, currently in the care of Leslie Clark, Carl’s great-niece and dental hygienist herself, will soon be part of our historical collection. Leslie is also holding onto Carl’s wooden cabinet that housed his dental tools.
Exploring the Local History
Our location is also significant in the broader historical context. We discovered that the original Bowman home is still standing on Hwy 231 in Old Pratts, VA. This link to the past serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bowman family and their impact on the local community.
Experience History and Comfort
At Bowman House Bed & Breakfast, we invite you to immerse yourself in a setting where history and hospitality seamlessly intertwine. Each room tells a story, and our warm, attentive service ensures a stay that is both comfortable and memorable.
Come visit us and be a part of the living history that makes Bowman House a unique and special place. Whether you’re here for a quiet getaway or to connect with your own family’s history, we look forward to welcoming you into our historic home.
For more information about our rooms, booking details, or to learn more about the Bowman family legacy, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to hosting you at Bowman House Bed & Breakfast, where history is always just a step away.