Looks Can Be Deceiving

Entrance to the Inn

     The 1840s Carrollton Inn and the 1840s Plaza may not seem like much from the outside, but I can assure you that once you see the interior of these historic buildings, your opinion is guaranteed to change. I interned at the 1840s Plaza and now work there part time. My first impression of the place was probably like anyone else’s. My first experience was when I went on my interview there.

            Going on interviews is nerve wracking. When I pulled up to the entrance on 50 Albermarle Street in Baltimore, at the 1840s Carrollton Inn, I was surprised. I had seen pictures on the website but when I pulled up it looked very bland. I parked in a fenced in lot and after exiting the lot, I walked down the side walk and went through a white door with a blue awning over it and proceeded to enter the brick building.

Patriots Room at the Inn

            Upon entering I was pleasantly surprised with a nice reception area, which included a fireplace, carpet, and a wooden desk that looked hand carved. The staff were very pleasant and they called up my soon to be internship supervisor, Dianna. After we met, she led me through the breakfast area, which was elegant and homey, with white table clothes, cloth napkins, and wooden chairs that fit the elegant décor. We went into the dining room which had a huge table which could probably seat at least 12 people.  

The Ballroom (4th Floor)

            After the interview she took me on a tour of the B&B and the rooms were absolutely exquisite. Each room has a unique décor that fits the historic time period. All of the bathrooms include whirlpool tubs and showers, and the tiling is beautiful. All the rooms have fireplaces, a TV and a king size bed. The owner buys a lot of antiques, which makes the rooms even more authentic.

The Carol Salon (3rd Floor)

            Next she took me over to the Fava building, which is historic. It is a four floor venue/banquet hall that is most often used for weddings, birthdays, corporate events, galas, and bar mitzvahs. Each floor has a unique feel and décor. In order to get to the building we crossed through a courtyard, which was beautiful with trees and gardens and seating for guests who might like to enjoy the atmosphere. We entered the Fava building and started on the 4^th floor, which is the Ballroom. This is the biggest and most elegant floor. It has chandeliers, an Irish pub Bar, and a wooden dance floor with a mirrored wall. This room also has several floor to ceiling Baltimore murals, from when it used to be part of the Baltimore City Life Museum.

Baltimore City Lites (2nd Floor)

            Next we went to the third floor, the Carol Salon, which is used mostly for ceremonies, due to its plane but classy feel. The second floor is the City Lites floor, and the most fun. This room also has many Baltimore Murals, but it also includes an original White Tower diner, a big dance floor, a DJ booth, a bar, a disco ball and banquet area. This room still has original pieces from when it was museum, which adds even more character. City Lites and the Ballroom are the most popular rooms in the building.

Cabaret (1st Floor)

            The first floor, the Cabaret, used to be a restaurant and night club. It has a very Latin flavor, with interesting ornaments hanging from the ceiling and red walls, and even a glass lighted mural. This floor also has a huge bar and booth seating. Many wedding couples use this room for a cocktail hour because of its nightclub atmosphere.

            Needless to say, after all the tours of both properties, I was very impressed with the place and felt it was definitely someplace I would like to work and gain experience. I now work there part time managing events and giving tours of the venue.