Ironclad Distillery Co., renowned for its bourbon whiskey production in Newport News, has made waves in the hospitality industry with its recent acquisition of the historic Kenmore Inn in Fredericksburg.
Under Kara King’s stewardship of Ironclad Distillery, the inn is set to undergo a transformation, including a name change to the Ironclad Inn and Bourbon Tasting Room.
The decision to rebrand the Kenmore Inn stems from Ironclad Distillery’s desire to extend its brand and create a unique destination that celebrates history and luxury. King, speaking about the acquisition, expressed excitement about the opportunity to continue the Kenmore Inn’s legacy while infusing it with the spirit of Ironclad Distillery.
“We believe everybody has a bourbon gene in their DNA, and it turns on at some point,” said King. “We’ve built all our spaces conducive to sharing stories over a glass of bourbon.”
The Kenmore Inn, with its rich history dating back to the 1790s, has stood as a symbol of Southern hospitality for over two centuries. Initially constructed by George Washington’s sister, Betty Washington Lewis, and her husband, Colonel Fielding Lewis, the inn has witnessed significant events throughout American history, including the Civil War.
Ironclad Distillery’s plans for the Kenmore Inn include establishing a tasting room in the inn’s basement, where guests can sample its acclaimed bourbon and other spirits. Additionally, the inn will continue to operate as a bed-and-breakfast and event facility, maintaining its tradition of providing a welcoming retreat for travelers.
“We’re trying to create the most comfortable space you can possibly come into, where you can relax, feel comfortable, and enjoy yourself,” explained King. “It’s about celebrating history and creating an environment where guests can immerse themselves in stories while savoring our spirits.”
The rebranding process is underway, with a soft opening planned for the Ironclad Inn’s bottle shop and bar on February 20. This soft opening will allow guests to experience a taste of what’s to come before the full opening of the tasting room in March. King emphasized the importance of preserving the inn’s history while ushering in a new chapter that reflects Ironclad Distillery’s commitment to quality and hospitality.
As the Ironclad Inn prepares to welcome guests to its refreshed space, King expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the Fredericksburg community. “We’re excited to be a part of this community and look forward to sharing stories and creating memorable experiences for our guests,” she said. “This is just the beginning of an exciting journey for the Ironclad Inn.”
The inn sits at 1200 Princess Anne Street in Fredericksburg.
