"James Dinsmore...a more faithful, honest and respectable man I have never known ."
-Thomas Jefferson
The Dinsmore House Inn takes its name from the home's architect and builder, James Dinsmore. Perhaps no other person had as much of a hand in shaping the famous presidential homes of Virginia, and the University of Virginia than Dinsmore. This house is a standing testament to his craftsmanship and legacy.
Born in Northern Ireland about 1771, Dinsmore became a naturalized citizen in Philadelphia on the fifth of June, 1798. His tools, purchased in Philadelphia at Thomas Jefferson's expense, were sent to Monticello, where Dinsmore worked as a master carpenter. In 1809, Dinsmore left Monticello to build Montpelier, the home of then U.S. President James Madison. Meanwhile, British troops had burned the nation's Capitol in 1814, and Jefferson recommended Dinsmore to Benjamin Henry Latrobe, America's first professionally trained architect, for restoration work there.
In subsequent years Dinsmore resided in Charlottesville, living on Main Street and speculating in property along that thoroughfare. From 1817 to 1825 he subdivided thirteen contiguous lots between Tenth and Fourteenth streets. Surviving structures from that period are the Vowles and Livers townhouses. University of Virginia Medical Alumni currently occupy the Vowles house, and the Dinsmore House Inn staff and guests currently occupy the Livers house.
During his time at the University of Virginia Dinsmore was the principal master carpenter for Pavilions III, V, VIII, fourteen dormitories, and together with John Neilson, the Rotunda and Anatomical Theatre.
Inn Amenities:
- Full homemade breakfast daily
- Complimentary beverages and snacks
- Daily freshening of rooms
- Evening social hour, ranging from wine
and cheese to tea and fresh pastries - Indoor pool and workout room available
- Free garage parking
- Concierge Services
- Complimentary use of DVD
collection and games
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