~Step
back in time and visit The Cumberland Manor, a grand Victorian
built in 1890. This 6000 square foot home has inviting public
rooms elegantly decorated with period antiques and a beautifully
hand-carved staircase. It has recently been restored to its
original grandeur, complete with hardwood floors in every room,
stained and leaded glass windows, coffered ceilings, elaborate
wood work and upscale era fireplaces. Boasting a large brick
front porch, it sits atop the Cumberland Mountains overlooking
historic downtown Middlesboro and has views of three states.
~Millions of years ago a meteor crashed
in Eastern Kentucky. The enormous crater that was left behind is
where Middlesboro is now located. As a result, the mountains
surround us in all directions. The city, one mile west of the
Cumberland Gap was founded by Alexander Arthur. He entertained
wealthy investors from Europe to settle here with the prospects of
income from iron mining and processing, like its namesake town of
Middle borough, England.
~The
house that is now Cumberland Manor was built for the Secretary
Treasurer John B. Cary. The Cary family lived here for a few
years until the town went bankrupt. Several bad fires and lack
of iron ore destroyed the local economy. The house was then
bought by the Easton family who lived here for many generations.
During the late 20’s and 30’s Middlesboro was known as Little
Las Vegas. It was characterized by the massive bootlegging and
prostitution that kept the area prosperous even during the Great
Depression. It has even been told by local folklore that for many years this house
was a lucrative bordello.
~The
Proprietors,
John and Jill West, formerly of south Florida, are the proud
owners of The Cumberland Manor. Renovating this historic mansion
and opening their home as a bed & breakfast has fulfilled their
dreams and goals. Jill has collected antiques for over 25 years.
Using her antiques along with sentimental pieces belonging to
her parents and other family members, Jill has decorated the Inn
with an eclectic and unique compilation. The love they have for
The Cumberland Manor is evident everywhere you look. The warmth
you feel when you meet John and Jill is the open friendship they
offer. Soon they will have you feeling like part of the family. See Owner's Personal Message
~The
newly renovated library and study, which resides on the main level, brings back the luxurious and ornately wood trimmed rooms of the era. A luxurious couch and chairs along with hospitable lighting, make this a perfect hang-out
while waiting for meals. Adjacent to the main lobby, the study/library area is easly accessible and
guarantees its guests a smart time. Spend time in this room and take advantage of the comfortable
atmosphere that penetrates the area. Relax here by reading a book, or bring your laptop computer and connect to our free WiFi network. Either way, this room will invite you to spend time and enjoy the surroundings.
~In
the recently refurbished dining room, a three course breakfast is served every morning.
Each course is served on a different set of antique dishes,
flatware and crystal. Truly a beautiful as well as tasty way to
start your day.
Breakfast is always a treat with a variety of foods varying to
meet the guests’ special needs or desires. Fresh fruit and
healthy alternatives are a specialty, although we have been
known to indulge in sweet homemade goodies as well. Gourmet
taste and presentation along with the wafting smells of fresh
brewed coffee and herbal teas await you every morning. Each
breakfast is home cooked with love.
We offer Gluten Free options for those who are afraid of dining in unknown places.
Just let us know in advance and we'll make sure to use all gluten free products in your cooking. In addition, we
use organic foods whenever possible. In fact, many of the fruits and vegetables you will eat during your stay
will have been grown right here on the premises! In the tradition of preserving the past, we are an "Eco-Friendly" facility
and our efforts are always environmentally considerate.
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~For
many guests,
the large wrap-around porch is a favorite spot to relax with
refreshments, play games, read or just enjoy the fresh air. Whatever you decide, you'll see that this is Middlesboro lodging and Cumberland
Gap lodging at its best.
~Stay at the
Cumberland Manor and take a piece of Heaven with you forever!~
