The Coombs Inn~Apalachicola, Florida (photo essay)

The Coombs Inn is located in Apalachicola, Florida.  It has received praise from various papers and journals.  The Victorian design of the "main" house and subsequent other buildings is magnificent and  the story of its original owner, James Nathaniel Coombs, is intriguing.

I have passed it on numerous occasions during my many trips to (and through) Apalachicola.  In July, I was afforded the opportunity to tour this beautiful Bed & Breakfast.  The owners were both cordial and pleasant during my tour.



The home was built in 1905 by builder, George H. Marshall.  The front entrance door is 42 inches wide (enough for a coffin to fit through and be placed in the front hallway for a wake - very common in those days).


The walls are of black cypress.

There are nine fireplaces in this home.


The staircase is carved oak and on the second floor landing is a set of leaded glass windows overlooking the veranda.


The second floor:



The antique furnishings and paintings are indicative of the period.  The home has 10 guest rooms.






The dining room:


A Little History:  

Unfortunately in 1911, a fire started in the attic and burned its way through the roof.  The home was not destroyed, however it was seriously damaged.  Mr. and Mrs. Coombs moved into the Franklin Hotel (which is now known as the Gibson Inn) with the intention of returning to their home after it was repaired.  They never returned.  Mrs. Coombs died ten days after the fire.  Mr. Coombs died three weeks after the death of his wife.  They are both buried in the Chestnut Street Cemetery (across the street from their home).  

During the time following the fire, the house was repaired and family members took up residence over the next 50 years.  However, in 1960 the house was closed, boarded up and left vacant.  In the early 80's, the home was purchased by Lyn Wilson (a well known interior designer of luxury hotel properties) and her husband, Bill Spohrer (airline executive).

They renovated the home adding 11 additional bathrooms so it appears the baths had always been a part of the house.  A modern breakfast kitchen was installed. Balconies were rebuilt and beams replaced.  In August of 1994 the renovations were finally completed.


In 1998, the Lyn and Bill increased the number of guest rooms by purchasing another large house a block away.  Suitably named the "Coombs Villas".  This house had been built in 1911 and had the same Victorian architectural features to the Coombs house.  It offers 8 guest rooms and 1 apartment.

In 2007, the Inn was again expanded by the purchase of the home next door to the Coombs House, which James Coombs had built in 1905 as a residence for his mother and aunt.  Lynn converted this third home into four spacious luxury accommodations called "Coombs Veranda Suites".  Here's a view of one of the suites:





I must say, I was very impressed with not only this B&B, but the employees too.  They were friendly and helpful.  I can not wait to actually have the opportunity to stay in this B&B.  From what I understand, the breakfast is outstanding.

If you ever get to Apalachicola, take the time to stay (or at least tour) this Inn.  I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.


Please feel free to see my other photo essays on Apalachicola:

Stepping Back In Time ~ Part I: Stores and Other Buildings


Stepping Back In Time ~ Part II:  Boats and Birds


Stepping Back In Time ~ Part III:  Chestnut Cemetery