Martha Washington
An Amazing Hotel, and Spa filled with history!
About/History of the Martha Washington
The Martha Washington Inn & Spa was established in 1832 as a private home and then a college. The inn is a very historical and unique place to stay at. It is located across from the Barter Theatre, and it features 63 elegant rooms to sleep in. It’s also a full-service spa, contains a saltwater pool, and has a restaurant inside called, Sisters American Grill.
It is well known for its southern hospitality, and how inviting the hotel. The hotel’s public rooms/ areas are, a fitness center, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a fire pit, put put, etc… This is part of what makes it a beautiful destination for relaxing and resting. The Martha Washington was originally a home and then a Civil War hospital for the injured, the property has history with modern sweetness, with a nice nightly port wine offering.
The Martha Washington is also a cool place to go if you want a fun ghost adventure! With its long history behind it, many people believe it to haunted. People say things move when they aren’t looking, or that they see shadow figures at night. If you ask, you may even be able to see a book filled with guests reports of paranormal activity! But whatever it is, it won’t ruin the fun and relaxing aspect of the hotel.
Community
The Martha Washington Inn is a historical building in our town’s history. The Martha Washington Inn never really housed Martha Washington because the building was built in 1832. It did serve as a women’s college and hotel, attracting visitors, and supporting local businesses. It also preserved the historic architecture, letting its presence connect with the community and tourists. The Martha plays a key role in the center of Abingdon, maintaining the town’s identity. The name appreciates the American heritage and tradition that still forms the community today.
FUN FACTS
- A student-nurse named Beth fell in love with a wounded Union soldier in Room 217. Some people still say they hear her violin music playing to soothe her love.
- The Presidents Harry S. Truman and Jimmy Carter, along with Eleanor Roosevelt, Lady Bird Johnson, and Elizabeth Taylor stayed at the Martha.
- The Martha Washington had a Hollywood connection in the 1930s, housing future stars Patricia Neal and Ernest Borgnine.
- It has a large outdoor heated saltwater pool along with a hot tub that has waterfall features.
- They frequently give out packages combined with tickets to the Barter Theater.
