The Wilmingtonian, Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, North Carolina received its name because of an English Earl, Spencer Compton. His official title was Earl of Wilmington and he was considered a patron of the state's Governor. Wilmington became a city in 1739 and was the county seat of New Hanover. Wilmington boasts elegant homes and beautiful boulevards. Although the population is approximately 82,000 people those numbers swell with visitors and college students. Wilmington's surroundings captured the attention of Hollywood, and Screen Gems Studio built a facility for making motion pictures and television shows. Today it is one of the attractions that can be visited.

Downtown Wilmington is a historic district with many fine nineteenth century homes, and The Wilmingtonian sits amidst this splendor. The hotel consists of five buildings, many of them historic. The oldest was built in 1841 as a private mansion. This dignified mansion is named the de Rosset house. The Dram Tree house is the second oldest home in the complex, built in approximately 1904. All of the buildings have been returned to their former glory. The newer buildings have the same charm with modern amenities.

A true southern experience with the balconies and courtyards to relax in, vacationers or business travelers will enjoy the service and facilities. The Wilmingtonian is considered a "boutique hotel'' joining the charm of a bed and breakfast with excellent modern conveniences. The hotel invites guests to relax in the many rockers that dot the balconies.

The suites at the Wilmingtonian offer their guests comfortable beds, cable television and alarm clocks. Suites come with kitchens or wet bars, refrigerators, microwaves, toasters and coffeemakers. There are VCR's and cable for guests viewing pleasures. Some of the rooms also will have a washer and dryer. Certain suites will have Jacuzzi tubs and a separate shower.

The business or leisure traveler can expect to find phones with data ports and voicemail. Other amenities are a fax machine and copier for which there is a charge. Free offerings from the hotel include a book library and a VCR library. Some free off-street parking may be available.

Small meetings, corporate conferences and weddings can be held at the Clarendon House. The building features a patio and gardens for outdoor events. The small conference room can seat twenty round tables or twenty five for a theater style event. There is a reception area that can accommodate seventy five with seating for forty eight at round tables. Percy's Bar is on site in the Clarendon House. The Ballroom setting can hold from one hundred and twenty to two hundred people.

The downtown setting has many restaurants within walking distance of The Wilmingtonian hotel. The cuisine ranges from Lowcountry cooking to fresh seafood. Italian, steakhouses and oriental fare are also available.

The hotel lies on Second Street which is just two streets from the Cape Fear River. Visitors can get to the Riverwalk area from the hotel. Wilmington hosts many festivals throughout the year such as the Azalea and Riverfest. Wrightsville Beach is a short drive away for sailing, swimming and sunbathing.