Submitted by Innkeeper Emily Dunn for The Marie Bed & Breakfast
Nestled in the heart of West Olympia, our Victorian home has been a silent witness to generations of stories. Over the years, it was gracefully transformed, becoming a welcoming sanctuary where guests can create new memories, while honoring the echoes of its past. Welcome to The Marie Bed and Breakfast, a place where history meets warmth, and every corner tells a story.
A Home with a Story
The story of this home begins over a century ago, during the grand Victorian era. Built in 1892, it was once a family residence for Clarence B Seeley and his first wife Nellie Mcintyre and later on second wife Maudie Maclin. Rich with the elegance and character that define the architecture of the time. Over the years, the home saw generations of Seely’s and McIntyre’s come and go until 1980, each leaving behind their own mark. From its towering, ornate windows to the intricate woodwork that lines the walls, every inch of the home whispers to us from a bygone era.
But as time passed, the home fell into disrepair, and it seemed like its legacy might be lost. It was during this period of quiet decline that it was found it — a once-beautiful gem, waiting for a new chapter.
Restoration and Transformation
After the original families’ final passing, Gary Engbrecht said he saw not just the creaky floors and faded wallpaper, but the heart and soul of a place that had so much potential. He knew we couldn’t let its beauty fade away. With love, patience, and respect for the home’s original charm, He set to work bringing it back to life.
The third owner was the one to envision The Bed and Breakfast with love and hard work Leanne Marie Kirkwood really put her heart and soul into the amazing Victorian home she loved so very much. The elegant home was honored into The historical society in 1985 as The McIntyre house.
Through luck and love came the 4th and current owner Alicia Elliot to continue LeAnne’s dream of turning this amazing Victorian home into a place of love a peace for all to enjoy.
The journey was long, but each room revealed its unique character. Kirkwood and Elliotts painstakingly restored the Victorian elements — from the sweeping staircase to the vintage light fixtures. Yet, they also wanted to make sure the home embraced a modern comfort that would make every guest feel at ease. And thus, The Marie Bed and Breakfast was born: a fusion of history, hospitality, and love. The name of the Bed and Breakfast, The Marie, was given by Elliott to honor Leanne Marie Kirkwood.
Creating a Warm Welcome
From the moment you walk through the door, our Victorian B&B feels like a home away from home. The cozy rooms are a mix of vintage charm and thoughtful touches. Each guest room tells its own story, with handpicked furnishings that nod to the past while offering all the comforts of the present. The smell of breakfast wafts through the house every morning, inviting you to relax, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasures.
Whether you’re curling up with a book in the parlor, enjoying a cup of tea in front of the fireplace, or taking a stroll through the lush garden, there’s a sense of peace here that is hard to find in today’s fast-paced world.
Guest Stories and Experiences
Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming so many wonderful guests from all walks of life. Each stay brings its own set of unique stories and memories. Many of our guests tell us that stepping into the house feels like stepping into another time, where the pace slows down, and the only thing that matters is enjoying the moment. Whether it’s a couple celebrating an anniversary, a family reconnecting, or solo travelers seeking a quiet retreat, our B&B has become a place where hearts are warmed, and new stories are written.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the journey of transforming this home into a bed and breakfast, we feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This house has become more than just a place to stay — it has become a gathering spot, a refuge, and a space where the past and present intertwined. We’re excited for the many more years of memories to come, and we hope you’ll be part of the story, too.
Whether you’re here for a night or a weekend, we invite you to experience the timeless charm of our Victorian home. Come for the history, stay for the hospitality, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you into the heart of The Marie Bed and Breakfast
We invite you all to join us this June 21, 2025, for our Lavender Lemonade event from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. come experience the love and walk through a time the only exist in history.
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