Tradition unmatched at historic inns in Sandhills

 By HOWARD WARD

 The historic inns of Pinehurst and Southern Pines offer a visit to a time that once was; an experience that too few of today’s fast-paced generation have enjoyed.

The Sandhills, particularly Pinehurst and Southern Pines, are rich in tradition and nostalgia. Everywhere you turn, there’s another Donald Ross-designed golf course that offers a unique challenge.

And the old inns that are so much of that tradition are still around, still serving some of the greatest food in the world and beverages that would make Rhett Butler order another round.

“All of the older inns in the area offer something that you really can’t find at any other golf destination,” said Caleb Miles, President and CEO of the Pinehurst-Southern Pines-Aberdeen Convention and Visitors Bureau. “The inns and hotels at other places may go back 20-30 years, but ours go back 100 years. They’re something special that helps distinguish us from other places.”

Walk through the doors of the Pine Crest Inn and feel the presence of the original owner, the venerable Donald Ross. He not only built great golf courses, he could build a gentleman’s drink. A few doors away is the wonderful Holly Inn, restored to its early elegance by the caring hands of Pinehurst Inc. The restoration brought the Holly Inn into the modern world without ridding it of the old-world charm.

The Manor Inn fell into disrepair several years ago and was forced to close, on the brink of being condemned. But new owners totally renovated it and instead of becoming a note in history, it became a nominee for the National Historical Society, serving as a major attraction for the area and a great place for meetings.

In fact, all the inns own historic significance as Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The entire Village of Pinehurst was designated a Historic Landmark in 1996.

The Magnolia Inn sits on a corner in the center of the village, looking regal and yet inviting. Dining on the porch is an option that many take during the beautiful spring and fall months.

“There’s something very special about a small, independent inn,” Miles said. “It makes you feel as though you have been brought into someone’s home. Its setting in the village allows you to walk from the porch to the shops. In some respects, it’s like a step back in time, but not at a loss of service or great food. The Magnolia has a lot of character.”

The Jefferson Inn is just off Broad Street in downtown Southern Pines, a beautiful structure that recalls days past when things weren’t so loud and rushed. The rooms at Jefferson Inn make the guests feel as if they had turned back the pages of time. Rumors are that some of history’s great romances were kindled at the Jefferson.

Whether the guest is in the mood for a romantic dinner in the lovely old dining room or just for a glass of wine in the lounge, the Jefferson puts a special glow on the evening. There’s an outside bar and a patio where patrons may dine and drink outside.

Recently changing ownership, the Jefferson dates back to 1900.

“Southern Pines has a lot of large and newer hotels along the corridor,” Miles said, “but there’s just something different about a historic inn like the Jefferson. And its restaurant has always been a popular place.”

Another popular place for the well-informed traveler is the Inn at Bryant House, a wonderful Bed and Breakfast located in Aberdeen. Old southern charm and great food keep the Bryant House bustling.

The Pine Crest Inn has the well-deserved reputation as the gathering spot in the Village of Pinehurst and its food and ambience are raved about.

When the final golf ball has been struck for the day and the players want to do some serious mingling and discussing of the scores, one of the best bets is to adjourn to the Pine Crest Inn.

“There’s only one Pine Crest, Miles said. “I don’t know of any place like it in the country. It’s extremely popular for its good food and as a social hangout. Guys like to go there after a round of golf, have a drink and then do it all over again the next day.

“Being at the Pine Crest during a major event such as the U.S. Open or the Tour Championship and rubbing elbows with the pros and USGA and PGA officials is something you don’t forget. It’s a pretty special place.”

Built 90 years ago, the Pine Crest is located in the center of the Village of Pinehurst, just a driver and wedge from the Carolina Hotel. It’s as much a part of the Pinehurst tradition as are the golf courses.

The Pine Crest extends an intimacy and a casual atmosphere that lends itself to relaxation. If you plan on spending the evening at the Pine Crest, leave your stuffed shirt at home and try one of their stuffed pork chops instead.

The Holly Inn, opened by Pinehurst founder James Walker Tufts in 1895, was the crown jewel of Pinehurst for some 80 years, but by the early 1970s, it appeared that it had served its purpose.

Several new hotels were serving the area and the Holly Inn, tired and badly in need of repair, closed its doors in 1974.

When ClubCorp bought Pinehurst Resorts in 1984, the Holly Inn was given new life. An exhaustive restoration project was begun in 1985 and the building’s intricate style and intriguing maze of gables, dormers, peaks and spires were carefully preserved.

A decade and a half later, Holly Inn underwent another restoration project, one that brought it to its highest ever level of beauty and elegance.

Nestled among colorful gardens and a perfectly manicured lawn, the Holly Inn has indeed gracefully recaptured the past and is on the National Register of Historic Buildings and Sites.

“The Holly Inn was getting to the point that it wasn’t really functional,” Miles said. “But now, after the restoration, it’s the resort flagship.”