Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Pomykala.
Hi Anne, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Despite the ground rules of never fall in love with a property before buying, my husband and I crossed the curved bridge on the entry to Gramercy and up the hill with the stone wall and were entranced. At the auction, there were few bidders. Families were afraid of the deterioration and developers of the restrictive zoning.
Therefore, thirty-six years ago, we became the proud owners of 45 acres with the mansion, carriage house, five houses, an apartment building, an ice house and pond, and the oldest organic farm in the state.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
We knew that there were many warts and pimples but had no idea that everything was still knob and tube electric and that the acidic water had played havoc with all of the steam heating pipes and water system. So in order to start the restoration, we decided that as a B & B business, our restoration could be tax-deductible. We had a head start because the Baltimore Symphony Associates chose the mansion to be the tenth Baltimore fundraiser showhouse. Shortly thereafter, we had a major boost with the Washington Post running a page and three quarters with five color pictures on Gramercy in the food section entitled Bed, Breakfast & Basil. This was picked up by newspapers across the country and in Canada. The phone has not stopped ringing since.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The gardens became now the focus of attention. Stone and brick infrastructure were installed to connect the previously installed wedding gardens. Meandering paths lead through the shade gardens. Artwork was installed. For me, this was prime time. Garden design and execution was now my avocation. Guests were actually coming to see the gardens. The gardens are my pride and joy. From the moment we moved in until today, my very own hands have helped shaped this place. Along with our fabulous landscaping team, we have transformed the property. I give garden tours and spend countless hours tending to the budding plants in our greenhouse room.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
My husband and I bought this property at auction. We had already raised our six children to adulthood and ventured to this property in search of something new. Now, many of our children have returned to participate in what has become a family business. We value all our staff (some who have been here 20+ years!).
Pricing:
- B&B Rooms $125-$375 a night
- Mansion Rental up to 150-200 guests (prices vary by chosen package and day of the week)
- Carriage House Rental up to 100 guests (prices vary based on package chosen and day of the week)
Contact Info:
- Email: info@gramercymansion.com
- Website: https://www.gramercymansion.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gramercymansion/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gramercymansion
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/gramercymansion
Image Credits
Head shot provided by Jillian from B.O.B Photography
