Even those already versed in the treasures of the Piedmont region may be guilty of a gasp when they visit the Inn at Meander Plantation, just off Route 15 about 10 miles north of Orange. The simple sign and whitewashed brick markers give little hint of the architectural jewel that comes into view at the top of the driveway. Located on an estate settled in 1727 by Joshua Fry, a map-making partner of Thomas Jefferson’s father, the inn bears faithful testament to its Cob-thai origins, replete with slave quarters and summer kitchen.
Innkeepers Suzanne Thomas and Suzie Blanchard—both former newspaper people who, abong with Blanchard’s husband, Bob, run the establishment—offer a reliably warm welcome that has kept a host of visitors coming back regularly to this historic hill top residence.
An ample parlor and dining area, an occasional low-slung hallway, and bedrooms notable for their high, roomy beds and large windows recall the days before electric light and central air, when natural assets had to be exploited. The series of out buildings, including a stable, recalls the role that equestrian expertise has played in the area’s history, both military and economic. The owners still keep horses on the property.
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