by John Wilson
posted October 19, 2005
Someone from the Victorian Era making a return to Rome, Ga., might not think that things have changed all that much. Rome, located "where the rivers meet and the mountains begin," boasts the largest intact Victorian district in the state.
Broad Street, the second widest main street in Georgia, is lined with quaint and ornate brick landmarks from an earlier time.
Rome, through its Downtown Development Authority, has been hard at work keeping the old downtown vibrant. Some $90 million has been invested in the effort.
Surrounded by the Etowah, Oostanaula and Coosa rivers, Rome dates to 1834.
It's the home of both Berry College and Shorter College. The local Little Theatre operates in a former downtown movie hall.
When you are in Rome, don't miss an elegant meal at T. Martooni's, 239 Broad St. You will find white tablecloths, friendly staff, and delicious food.
There are several bed and breakfast inns at Rome that help hearken you back to the olden times.
One is the Coral Ridge Bed and Breakfast located in a neighborhood where many historic homes are being restored.
The husband and wife team of Tim and Rey Struttmann have a combined 30+ years of hotel experience. Tim Struttmann grew up in Decatur, Ill., and is a graduate of the University of Nevada Las Vegas Hotel College. Tim spent the majority of his career as either an assistant general manager or a general manager for hotels in Florida, St. Louis and Atlanta. Rey Struttmann grew up in Marietta, Ga., and graduated from the University of Denver with a major in hotel, restaurant and tourism management. Rey began her career as an assistant general manager in Florida, and worked in Atlanta for six years in hotel sales and convention services.
Their dream of owning a bed and breakfast was realized last year when they purchased the property that has become the Coral River Bed and Breakfast. The stately home at No. 2 Coral Ave. was built in 1890 by a local judge. The Struttmans completed extensive remodeling and redecorating before opening to the public.
Guests stay upstairs in either Cardinal Way, Hunterdon Lane, Buckingham Place, Windchime Walk and Carriage Court. Windchime Walk is the one with the two-person jacuzzi tub. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVS and individual heating and cooling units.
There's a spacious porch for lounging, and plenty of coffee-table books inside for reading. The home is stocked with antiques and interesting bric a brac.
Make reservations at the Coral River Bed and Breakfast by calling 706 235-9883.
Next door, a Marietta couple has fixed up a home the size of the Coral River. And just down the street, another old beauty that had been condemned is being fully restored.
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Coral River Bed and Breakfast
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