The Dames Inn on Princess

In 1923 Mr. Walter Bergen engaged James B Lynch, architect, to build a home for his wife and seven children. In his infinite wisdom, Mr. Lynch put storm shutters on every window knowing this coast was prone to storms. They were handcranked from inside and during the years that followed I’m sure they were used for weather events which threatened the interior of the home. The shutters and mechanics have grown weary and tired during the course of years...they still exist but are rusted and old. Before Florence hit my daughter evacuated me to Charlotte, given HER infinite wisdom, knowing what she went through the year before when she and her young family were impacted by hurricane Irma. There was very little I could do for my beloved home except say goodbye and hope for the best. When I returned a few days ago, blessed by the goodness of neighbors and friends, I had a home still standing and a roof over my head. But the Dame took care of business; shutters that had not worked for years were shut and every window was protected as best it could. I’m lucky I am blessed that the Dame is still standing. Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support it means everything...and thank you Dame Catharine Carpender for protecting our home and all those souls who reside here