Making Memories
by Kathleen Walls -
American Roads Travel Magazine
It was almost predestined that Fran Washko would become an innkeeper. Her maiden name was Bauder, which is derived from the German "Bande" meaning a waystation. There was even a great uncle who was an innkeeper. So when she and husband, Mike, bought the former Altman House in Byron Georgia and converted into a bed and breakfast no one should have been surprised.
Byron is located just a few miles south of Macon in the heart of Georgia's peach country. The softly rolling landscape is mainly cultivated in peach or pecan orchards or small cotton farms. The big event held annually is the Peach Festival held in mid June.
The house itself also seemed destined to become an inn. Two enterprising brothers, Roth and Clint Hillman built it in 1921. Alas, the brother's dreams were larger than their pocket book. When the depression descended on the country they lost the almost finished house. The Altman family bought it, added electricity and other conveniences. Pearl and Durwood Altman raised their family there and remained in the home their entire lives.
Even then the house was the center of entertainment and fun. Dorothy Altman recalls growing up in the house. "It was the official gathering place for her friends since the school was just across the street. In fact her High School Prom was held in the parlors there."
Because of its happy history, Fran and Mike named it Memory Inn. New memories are still being made in the old house. Although it only has four bed rooms, the inn is spacious and gracious.Fran's Southern Style Breakfasts are ample enough to keep you going all day. The parlor downstairs combines the conveniences of today with the charm of yesterday. Each room has its own bath. You can relax in a rocker on the shaded veranda or stroll the landscaped grounds. The classic Beau-Arts style creates an aura of elegance. Fran and Mike will make anyone feel at home. In addition to being a traditional bed and breakfast, the inn hosts weddings, reunions, business seminars and any other event you desire. They once played host to a large group who stayed for seven days and spoke no English. Fran commented "It was fun."
Fran's cooking talents have been well honed. She was the former assistant manager of the officers club at nearby Robins Air force Base until she retired. Prior to that she worked at various military bases around the world mostly in food management positions. The inn's annual Burns Night, honoring those of Scots ancestry in the area, has become a well-known event. Although the event is catered, Fran always makes her Cock O' Leeky Soup. She claims, "It's really quite good. It has chicken and leeks in it and one unusual ingredient, prunes."
What better place for you to make a few memories of your own.
Contact Memories Inn at 1-800-671-8111 or visit its web Page at www.memoriesinn.com
Memories Inn photo courtesy of Memories Inn
Provided by American Roads Travel Magazine - Visit American Roads Travel Magazine website.
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