A Bygone Era
By Elizabeth Dougherty
It is interesting to ponder why Dr.
Bolling Crenshaw decided to build such
a romantic Victorian home way back
in 1890. Perhaps it was with his wife,
Willie, in mind. Whatever the reason,
residents of Auburn are most grateful
for such an important architectural
contribution to the Old Main and Church
Street Historic District.
The Auburn Historic Preservation
Commission designates this district as
signifi cant both historically and architecturally.
From the history standpoint,
the land was originally part of the Creek
Indian Nation until it was “ceded” to
the federal government in 1832. According
to the Commission, most of the
historical structures were erected from
1848 to 1937. In their “Procedures
and Standards” document, the overall
architectural style of the District “refl ects
and juxtaposes the taste and lifestyle
of distinct groups of people who, at
different periods in the town’s growth,
comprised a signifi cant portion of its
cultural and economic base.” Unfortunately,
most of these beautiful homes
are privately owned and not available
for interior viewing.
However, Crenshaw House is within
reach of the general public. It has operated
as a bed and breakfast for nearly
22 years. Their website, www.auburnala
bamalodging.com describes this unique
property best. “From 12-foot vaulted
ceilings, to golden heart pine fl oors, late
Victorian details abound. Graceful proportions
are the hallmark of the era; and
guests especially enjoy the spaciousness
of their rooms. Each has a unique
decorative mantle surrounding the old
coal-burning fi replaces (no longer in use
to comply with local fi re codes). Rooms
are trimmed in rich hardwood - some
natural fi nish, others painted. Transoms
and brass ceiling fans throughout, recall
a less hurried way of life.”
Modern conveniences make the oldworld
experience even more memorable.
Each room boasts it’s own private bath
and every room has internet access.
Topping off each morning is a complimentary
breakfast with coffee or tea,
bread fresh from the oven, fruit, bagels
and cereal.
Football fans can take advantage of
the Tiger Club option. There is no fee to
join and members get some benefi ts like
late checkout and upgrades, if available.
The trek to Auburn University is a
mere 3 blocks, which alleviates parking
problems on game days. That, combined
with pretty reasonable rates, makes
Crenshaw Guest House an option to
be seriously considered during football
season.
Elizabeth Dougherty, a resident of Auburn,
is a former Real Estate Broker and
Mortage Broker. She can be reached at
EADougherty1@aol.com
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