When the project of establishing Cape Charles as a premier city was initially undertaken,the best talent was vigorously recruited to achieve this goal. James W. Lee, a highly distinguished and sought-after architect from Norfolk came to Cape Charles to design the house now at 403 Tazewell Avenue for James W. Wilson owner of the Eastern Shore's largest department store - "Wilson's". James lived with his wife Alyce, two daughters, Virginia and Georgie and the housekeeper Anna Jackson in this house and it served as their home until James and Alyce died in 1957 and 1958 respectively.
Wilson-Lee House is a turn of the century Colonial Revival home (constructed in 1906) conceived and designed as a residence that would allow for leisure and entertainment, an integral part of life in Cape Charles at the time. While later owners have left their imprint on Wilson-Lee House, the building remains structurally the same as the day it was completed.
“We named the bed and breakfast Wilson-Lee House to honor its builder and architect.”
Resident Innkeeper Leon Parham is an architect specializing in historic restoration and adaptive reuse. He has restored the original integrity of the Wilson-Lee House while providing the maximum comforts required by a bed and breakfast. The house you visit today contains all the social energy that infused the nineteenth century original, without the stuffiness usually associated with historical projects. Leon and owner David Phillips have stylishly restored Wilson-Lee House to its original purpose — fun and entertainment.
Each of the six guest rooms in Wilson-Lee House has a private bath, and is decorated in a unique, eclectic style with authentic period heirlooms from David’s and Leon’s families, contemporary classics, and a mix of classic and contemporary art. These rooms are a successful synthesis of modern-day amenities with a respect for tradition. They vary in historic allusion from Classical, Victorian, Art Deco through Post Modern.
“We want every guest to feel special.” To achieve this goal, upon arrival in one’s room, each guest is greeted with fresh cut flowers as well as a tasty pillow ornament.
David and Leon, both superb cooks, have created breakfast menus to satisfy the most discriminating of tastes. Leon is particularly proud of his broiled grapefruit and Huevos Rancheros. David has perfected the Oven-baked Pancake with Apple and Creme Brulee French Toast.. Guests continually ask for the recipes. Each morning breakfast includes a choice of juices, fresh fruit, hot bread, a tantalizing main course and a choice of specially blended coffees (decaf or regular) and tea. Vegetarian and vegan breakfasts can be prepared with no problem, however advance notice is appreciated. During fair weather, breakfast is served on the screened-in portion of the wrap-around porch.
While the focus of Wilson-Lee House is relaxation, business and outside world amenities are available upon request. These include television, VCR, a fax machine and a computer.