BISHOP VICTORIAN HOTEL
By Patrice
Raplee
Port Townsend, located in Washington State's upper peninsula, is an
enchanting little town surrounded by inlet islands and majestic Mt.
Baker.
Dedicated to preserving the look and spirit of the early 1900s, this
seaport Mecca has fashioned an environment that is captivating and resplendent
with history. While the heart of the downtown area tends to receive
large numbers of tourists arriving by ferryboats, Port Townsend doesn't
loose its pictorial atmosphere. Savvy city planners and local business
owners have worked together to restore original buildings, modernize
facilities and provide visitors with a glimpse into the past.
The finest example of restoration and accommodation in Port Townsend
is the exquisite Bishop Victorian Hotel. Situated in the downtown district,
the Bishop sits one block off of the main street affording guests a
quiet respite. This four-story brick building was originally built in
1890 by an English seaman named William Bishop.
The Bishop building has an interesting history chronicled and made
available for guests by the current proprietors Joe and Cindy Finnie.
The Finnies purchased the building in 1995 and began extensive renovations.
The Bishop is well into the renovation period, and is now one of the
most breath-taking Victorian-era hotels in the Pacific Northwest.
Upon entering the grand lobby, guests and visitors will find themselves
transported back in time to the sheer elegance of Victorian decorated
splendor. A soft, warm cranberry-colored glow emanates from the reproduction
Victorian period light fixtures that are hung over the reception and
parlor area. Beautiful antiques, oriental rugs and porcelain vases adorn
the grand lobby.
Noted interior decorator Karen Hovde has implemented the design themes
of William Morris, who contributed to the interior decorations of the
Titanic and Olympic sailing ships. Morris' elegant designs are reflected
in the hand-carved reception desk, seating area, wainscoting and fireplace
mantle; there is even a replica of the Titanic first class cabin bedroom
as a sitting area in the grand lobby.
The Finnies paid great attention to detail in refurbishing this gem
of a hotel and the lobby is only the beginning. Lincresta paneling lines
the staircase that leads up to the guest suites.
Each floor of the hotel is graced with lovely Victorian fine art, period
antique furniture and wall hangings. The one and two bedroom suites
are sumptuous in their décor. In the sitting area of the suites'
antique furniture, reproductions of Victorian paintings and fixtures
are artfully arranged in front of a cozy fireplace. Tiled bathrooms
with pedestal sinks and soaking tubs are just a few of the truly valuable
amenities offered; there are even landscaped gardens to stroll through
in the back of the hotel.
The Bishop is moderately priced and appropriate given the caliber of
the hotel. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and happy to assist
guests with directions, or suggestions on local dining and shopping.
Indeed this hotel is a rare find and definitely worth the travel to
the end of the peninsula for an enticing step back in time. For more
information, call The Bishop Victorian Hotel at (360) 385-6122 or go
to their web address, www.bishopvictorian.com.
HOME
|
