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Pennsylvania Magazine
Civil War Theme Envelops Bradford County B&B Pennsylvania Magazine - (800) 537-2624
Written by: Linda C. Feltman
For their 25th wedding anniversary, Richard and Sharon Frank enjoyed a trip to Europe, staying at several bed and breakfasts during their tour. Years later, while visiting in Bradford County, they happened upon an inn for sale in Troy, just south of the New York border.
As with so many changes in life, timing played a vital part. Richard, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, had just decided to take early retirement after 30 years of teaching. Their attraction to bed and breakfast proprietorship became a reality when they became the new owners of the inn. Renaming it the Golden Oak Inn because of the magnificent oak woodwork in the 1901 Queen Anne-style home, they have filled it with antiques and Victorian decor.
Richard's delightful breakfasts, vast collection of Civil War memorabilia and experiences as an reenactor have caused the inn to be featured on two regionally aired television programs. A boyhood interest led to his extensive knowledge about all facets of the Civil War. This, coupled with his collection of Civil War artifacts, has created themed guest rooms offering a glimpse into a fascinating part of history.
The North Room has prints of Generals Grant and Chamberlain, as well as vintage photography depicting various battle sites where the Union Army prevailed, while the South Room features prints of General Lee and others. A Lincoln Room has busts of Lincoln and a lithograph predating 1863.
One room, named for Clara Barton, is dedicated to all women who served during the war, and the Pennsylvania Suite highlights Pennsylvania battles and personalities. Each room has period antiques, a selection of Civil War accoutrements and a mini-library that focuses on that room's theme.
Morning brought a breakfast that spoke well of Richard's culinary talents. He takes pride in using the freshest of ingredients, many grown in his raised garden beds. The maple syrup served is tapped from the five 95-year-old maple trees on their property.
The Franks' idea of hospitality includes making special accommodations for their guests, even unexpected ones. For example, Richard has risen early in the morning to drive a distance and purchase foods to accommodate kosher diets. Another time, a visiting French student lamented at breakfast how much he missed genuine baguettes. The next morning, after Richard had driven 25 miles to an ethnic bakery, the young man feasted on fresh baguettes, asking sheepishly if they would mind if he dunked the bread in his coffee, like he did at home.
Linda C. Feltman is the author of Bed & Breakfast & Unique Inns of Pennsylvania. She has been actively involved with the bed and breakfast industry in Pennsylvania since 1982. Readers' comments are invited and should be sent to B&B, Pennsylvania, Box 576, Camp Hill, PA 17001-0576.
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