What did we Find at the Victorian on Main B&B?
In the small town of Fairfield, Illinois sits a lovingly remodeled Queen Anne Victorian house. Once-upon-a-time, it was the residence of a prominent Illinois judge. Today, it serves the community as The Victorian on Main Bed & Breakfast.
While located a little off the beaten path, we found it to both charming and comfortable. In addition, we found the following…
Easy to find, the B&B sits on the main road in the center of town.
Location
209 W. Main Street
Fairfield, IL 62837
Contact:
Scott Boyett
General Manager
(618) 919-0208
Check In: 3 PM
Check Out: 10 AM
Breakfast: Included
*Specials, packages and gift certificates available. Wedding and Events venue.
Just off the lobby, the Parlor is in the 1st floor section of the "tower."
Historical Lodging for the City
First, we found The Victorian on Main owners have preserved the property’s historical value.
Built in 1895, Illinois architect, W. E. Felix designed the home for Jacob R. and Lucretia (Bonham) Creighton. It was their home until 1920 when Jacob died.
The Creightons were both were prominent in the community. Jacob was a judge and state’s attorney. Lucretia was the 1st woman from the county to graduate from college.
Parlor fireplace boasts hurricane lamp collection.
The keyhole shaped window in the 2nd floor staircase sports a beautiful stained-glass window.
Over the years, the house had several owners and served multiple purposes in Fairfield but changed hands again in 2005. The current owners restored the mansion to its original splendor while running an antique shop on the 1st floor for many years.
After a recent citywide study showed a great need for lodging, the property switched from antique store to bed and breakfast in 2019.
Named after the original owners, the 2nd floor Creighton Room is full of antiques.
Three antique plates hang above the bed. This one is Dickens.
Lovingly Remodeled for Comfort and Ease
Second, we found the house to be lovingly remodeled with comfort and ease in mind.
The house retains many original details such as a “tower,” original fireplaces, and pocket doors.
Most of the work needed was on the upper floors. It included:
- A new, wider staircase connecting the 2nd and 3rd floors.
- In-suite bathrooms with modern fixtures and a vintage flair.
- Two of the five rooms becoming suites with sitting areas.
The Felix Room connects to the Creighton Room via a jack-n-jill bathroom, creating a two-room suite if needed.
Sitting area in the spacious Squirrel's Nest located on the 3rd floor. This cozy suite has a fabulous bird's eye view.
Enclosing attic space by following structural lines saved headspace. Wallpaper covered sheetrock and pine paneling added interest. Either way, the 3rd floor rooms are cozy with amazing views.
On the 3rd floor, you find the Tower Room. Aptly named for its location, the room is light, airy and feminine.
The Tower Room bathroom design is a guest favorite, especially the vintage sewing-machine-table-turned-vanity.
Updated plumbing and electric make sure there is always plenty of hot water and available outlets in the guest rooms.
Woodwork throughout the house is mostly original. One of my favorite remodeling finds was the reuse of an old window.
Originally it opened to an outside porch. When the kitchen was added, instead of covering the window, it became a display case.
This display case was at one time an exterior window.
Our homemade breakfast-for-two filled us for the remainder of the day.
Guests enjoy luxury toiletries by STEAM.
Caters to their Guests
Third, from comfortable rooms to delicious breakfasts to friendly conversations, The Victorian on Main caters to their guests.
Everything was comfortable for our stay…..the beds, linens, toiletries, and room temperature. We also had easy access to water and snacks.
The breakfast? The totally delicious food was fresh, homemade, and quite a spread for the two of us. You can dine in the main dining room, your room, or one of the outside seating areas.
Innkeeper, Kathy Taylor, greeted us with the warmth of a long-time friend, even though we had just met. Later, in our interview she mentioned something I really appreciated.
Kathy said,” We try not to bother people when they’re rushed about. You don’t want to set the trap for conversation.” She was around just enough when we needed her.
One of several places to enjoy dining or relaxing outdoors.
The Victorian on Main—Lovingly Remodeled and a Great Place to Stay
Having the comforts of home is what we seek when traveling. A comfortable bed, good food, fast WiFi, and room to stretch out are a must.
When you stay at The Victorian on Main, it’s not only lovingly remodeled, you get all the above. To sum it up, it’s a wonderful place to stay.
Some favorite antique store items remain as decor for the B&B.
Innkeeper, Kathy Taylor, always had a smile on her face.
About the Owners
Kathy Taylor and her children (the Boyetts and Shoemakers) own the Victorian on Main B&B, working together to ensure its success. They often gather in Fairfield to work on projects together.
During our interview, Kathy told me how she felt about being an innkeeper. She said, "I thought I would like it. I didn't know I would love it. The people we've had have just been wonderful."
The switch from antique store to a B&B has been remarkable. Kathy said they get so many compliments from people in town, such as "This needed to happen" and "This is a great way to use this house."
In addition to a lovingly remodeled B&B, the Victorian on Main is available for small weddings, parties, and events. They are also now hosting "Tea and Tours." Be sure to drop by!
**Thank you to Kathy and family for the interview and allowing us to photograph your B&B for our Worthy Detours Travel Blog. Also, thank you for your kindness in providing our overnight stay and delicious breakfast!
Looking for more amazing places to sleep during your travels? Head over to our "Places to Sleep" page for other Worthy Detour stops.
This is my very favorite place to stay in Fairfield. When we go back “home” to visit for a few days we feel so comfortable staying at the Inn. Kathy is such a friendly host. She makes a wonderful breakfast for us. So special. Love your pictures. Love the Victorian Inn!!!
Thank you for your kind words. We cannot agree more!
You will be pampered, respected and honored at The Victorian. No one is ever intrusive, just spoiling you behind the scenes and anticipating your needs. Can’t wait to return. A stay at The Victorian is like coming home.
We totally agree with you! Thanks for the comment.
Thank you for your kind words. We enjoyed have you here. Hope you will be able to return sometime.
You are very welcome. We loved meeting you. All the best!!