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Jann and Steven
Welch moved to North Carolina in 2001. Steven had retired from the U.S.
Coast Guard in Charleston, SC, and was interested in operating an inn as
his new career. Jann, a professional artist, was willing to move her
business to the culturally rich mountain region and try something
different, too. The couple and their 25 lb Main Coon cat, Hershey, found
the historic "Dr. Gouge House" property in Bakersville and, with some minor
remodeling, opened the Bakersville Bed & Breakfast and the Picket Fence
Gallery shortly after their move.
The colonial style house was built in 1933 by Dr. and Mrs. A. E. Gouge.
There is a carriage house slightly up the hill behind the main house and it
is used for BB&B guests with children, small pets, and those anticipating
extended stays. Dr. Gouge built an additional structure closer to the
street. This was his medical practice. It now serves as Jann's
gallery/studio.
The BB&B is full of antiques, quilts, a fine art collection representing
Jann's works as well as pieces from many other talented arts and crafts
people in the region. Guests enjoy a "feet on the furniture" feeling while
listening to traditional music in the living room. There are many musical
instruments on display and all are encouraged to play, sing along, or
simply sit back and enjoy. With a collection of several sets of china, one
pattern dating back to 1865, the generous gourmet breakfasts are served
with a variety of settings seldom seen at today. Jann and Steve
particularly love sharing the large mountainside porch, complete with
rocking chairs, with guests and the visiting birds. At present the count
is 16 different species frolicking all over seven feeders. George, the
'outside cat' (who came with the house...) is well behaved, well fed, and
hasn't disturbed the birdwatching.
People who have stayed at the Bakersville Bed & Breakfast say they feel
like they've come home, to their mountain home, and look forward to
returning again and again. Jann and Steven understand exactly how they
feel! |
