"I feel as though I have lost a piece of my own personal history," I told my daughter, Olivia as I looked at the charred remains of what had once been a spectacular Victorian mansion dressed in soft yellow with green trim. The Gabriella Pearson room that I had been fortunate enough to stay in was unrecognizable. The burned remains were a skeleton of a former historic landmark, built over 120 years ago.

I had honeymooned here and been a regular guest before the beautiful Inn began receiving many prestigious awards including being named as one of Southern Living's top three favorite inns two years in a row.  The house had been stunning from it's paneled library walls where I often took afternoon tea to the famous four star Gabrielle's for a memorable meal with exceptional live piano music.

Richmond Hill was such a favorite place for my husband and myself to relax that we had purchased a print of the home and have it framed and displayed in our tea room. It has served as an inspiration to me for high customer service and true Southern hospitality.

Only the historic home was engulfed and destroyed in the fire. The inn continues to operate with guest rooms available in their croquet cottages and garden pavilion are. Afternoon tea is now served in the garden.

What began in 1889 for Ambassador and Congressman Richmond Pearson and his family when they built their stately Queen Anne style home has tragically ended in a great loss to us all. At one time, the house was known as one of the most elegant structures in Asheville. As we speak, the state is investigating this as an arson. I for one, will miss this great lady!