Press and Reviews

Inspected and Recommended by the South Carolina B&B Association

Summer 2008 Voices
Viewers of Ken Burns' Civil War series may recall the vivid journals of Mary Chesnut. The Bloomsbury property was build in 1849 by James Chesnut, Sr., and through the combination of loving care and military precision, Bloomsbury has, well, bloomed.

May 2008 Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center
It is with great satisfaction that your Chamber of Commerce presents this 2008 Community Pride Award to Bloomsbury Inn for exhibiting the best in civic responsibility and leadership through its interest and personal contributions in maintaining and improving Kershaw County's beauty and uniqueness.

8 April 2008, “Manicured grounds….a new definition is Bloomsbury.”
Member of the Charleston Garden Club

October 2007, The Honorable Mark Sanford, Governor of South Carolina
Congratulations! You are a great asset to our state not only through your successful business practices, but also by promoting our state's history. I'm sure many of your guests leave the inn having learned more about James and Mary Chesnut and the Civil War era in which they lived. Jenny joins me in wishing you continued success. Take care. Sincerely, Mark Sanford

September 2007, Bed and Breakfast.com
The Bloomsbury Inn was selected as one of the top B&Bs in the United States in the annual Best of BedandBreakfast.com Awards, 2007-2008. With 6,500 eligible bed and breakfasts, The Best of BedandBreakfast.com Awards were presented based upon a qualitative and quantitative review of the nearly 10,000 independent reviews submitted to BedandBreakfast.com, the leading online B&B directory and reservation network worldwide.

“We know how important independent reviews are. We're delighted that inngoers concurred that Bloomsbury Inn is a favorite among those seeking B&B getaways,” explained Sandy Soule, Editor of BedandBreakfast.com and one of the most highly recognized authors in the B&B industry. “Clearly Bloomsbury Inn earned high marks from reviewers for their fine accommodations, top amenities, and wonderful hospitality and service,” commented Soule.

7 July 2007, The State Home and Garden
It is a wonderful place and a wonderful home. The Browns accommodate visitors from all over who want to soak up the area's rich history, and they greet all of them the same way...Welcome to Bloomsbury. Welcome to our home.

3 May 2007, The State, Columbia, South Carolina
Nestled in nature, there’s room at the Inn. Guests at Bloomsbury Inn find birds, butterflies, history and great conversation. The Bloomsbury Inn joins more than 65,000 habitats certified since the program was launched by the National Wildlife Federation in 1973.

2 May 2007, The State, Columbia, South Carolina
That really is a special, special treat: Biscuits and Chocolate Gravy. Katherine Brown, owner of Bloomsbury Inn on Lyttleton Street in Camden, believes in presentation, too.

May 2007, Southern Living
Situated in a neighborhood of stately homes, the 19th-century home also boasts two acres of manicured grounds…AN INN TO REMEMBER.

20 February 2007, The State, Columbia, South Carolina
Head to Camden on 3 March for a top-of-the-line kitchens tour in historic homes. You’ll see kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances and historic touches. The tour also includes cooking demonstrations by Camden chefs; demonstrations will be held in the original kitchen house of Bloomsbury.

January 2007, National Geographic Society
“The Officers and Board of Trustees have enrolled Bloomsbury as a member of the National Geographic Society, in recognition of support of this scientific and educational organization chartered in 1888 for diffusing geographic knowledge and promoting research and exploration.”

December 2006, South Carolina Home and Gardens
“The Browns, perfect innkeepers...will welcome you to relax, step away from the stresses of daily life, and enjoy the comfort of being pampered. You will want to come back to Bloomsbury again and again.”

November 2006, She! Magazine
“All of my life, I wanted a very historic homme on a quiet, quaint street...That is how Bloomsbury Inn came to be.”

2006 “The South Carolina Encyclopedia”, edited by Walter Edgar
Page 771: “Rain porch. A sheltered exterior residential living area…notable examples…Bloomsbury (ca 1850) in Camden…”

24 September 2006 – The State, Columbia, South Carolina
“Bloomsbury (the Colonel James Chesnut House), a circa-1849 home in Camden, features a good example of a rain porch. Rain porches feature elongated roof supports that produce an optical illusion of additional height and grandeur. They were common on houses built from about 1820 until 1860 in the 14 counties generally known as the Pee Dee.” It is also commonly referred to as the Carolina verandah.

30 August 2006 – Camden Chronicle-Independent, Camden, South Carolina
“Then and now: Camden’s in-town estates. In 1916, the estate was downsized to “13 acres, made up of two parsels;” today Bloomsbury sits on two acres which features many native SC flora.

“Katherine Lemay Brown, owner of Bloomsbury Inn in Camden, has been elected as the second vice president of the South Carolina Bed and Breakfast Association…responsible for insuring that the inspection policies of the association are followed and to recommend to the board any changes necessary.”

23 May 2006 - Camden Historic Landmarks Commission
During the National Historic Preservation Month, Bloomsbury was named as an award winning historic property. The certificate was presented at the Camden City Hall by The Honorable Mary Y. Clark, Mayor of Camden, and Clarence B. Mahoney, Jr., Chairman Historic Landmarks Commission. Bloomsbury was specifically recognized for "renovation and re-use of c1830 Col James Chesnut home."

22 May 2206 - Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center
During the annual meeting, Bloomsbury was awarded a certificate of distinction:
"It is with great satisfaction that your Chamber of Commerce presents this Certificate of Distinction as part of the Community Pride program to Bloomsbury Inn for exhibiting the best in civic responsibility and leadership through your interest and personal contributions in maintaining and improving Kershaw County's beauty and uniqueness. You are to be commended for the restoration of the historic Bloomsbury home and converting it into an upscale Inn. We, on behalf of the people of Kershaw County, salute you."

20 April 2006 - The State, Columbia, South Carolina
"Spring at Bloomsbury Inn in Camden...the beauty at this time of year draws many visitors to the two acres of gardens."

April 2006 - Southern Living
Bloomsbury was honored to host Annette Thompson, feature writer, and Meg McKinney, photographer, in anticipation of being featured in the travel section of an upcoming edition of Southern Living.

2005 Candlelight Tour of Homes, Camden Junior Welfare League
“Bloomsbury, one of the most significantly historic homes in Camden, South Carolina…is located on two acres of city property which features native flora of South Carolina. 100+ year old Live Oaks, Magnolias, fruit trees and many varieties of Azaleas and Camellias…The home features twenty-plus over-sized rooms with thirteen foot ceilings…Inside the loving restored home, with uncompromising attention to detail, the Browns have created a warm and welcoming environment for all who traverse the doorways.”

December 2005 – Charleston Magazine
“Take a step back in time and experience the holidays in true Colonial-era fashion…Only a short drive from the Kershaw-Cornwallis House is historic downtown, where more than a dozen buildings – including the circa 1850 Bloomsbury House – will open their doors as part of the Camden Junior Welfare League Candlelight Tour of Homes.”

7 December 2005 - Camden Chronicle-Independent, Camden, South Carolina
“The greenery is being garlanded; the Christmas trees are being decorated; and the candles are almost ready to be set aglow…The Browns, who have lived in 13 states, Europe and the Pacific, bought the house in November 2004 and have opened it as a bed and breakfast. They have filled their home with antiques and such furnishings as a hand-carved table and chairs and hutch in the Gentlemen’s Parlor and World War I artwork.”

November 2005 – Golden Life, Pee Dee Area
“Bloomsbury Inn, as the property is called, is not just another large antebellum house…The Browns offer more than a place to sleep and the morning meal. They are hosts at the personal level, becoming acquainted with their guests and engaging them in conversation. Dr Brown said guests respond well to that opportunity, pointing out it is one of the reasons people stay at bed and breakfast inns. The Browns also offer a tour of the historic house…”

19 October 2005 - Camden Chronicle-Independent, Camden, South Carolina
“A stay at the Bloomsbury Inn is complimented by true Southern hospitality, gourmet breakfasts, complimentary socials and well-appointed bed chambers…uncompromising attention to detail with luxurious amenities.”

18 October 2005 – The State, Columbia, South Carolina
“The couple last month opened The Bloomsbury Inn, an upscale bed and breakfast in a historical downtown Camden home. They searched nearly every small town in South Carolina before settling on Camden. It really just has wonderful attractions and good Southern charm.”

2 September 2005 – Camden Chronicle-Independent, Camden, South Carolina
“Stewards of history…They [Bruce and Katherine Brown] are completing renovations and landscaping work in anticipation of opening Bloomsbury to the public as a bed and breakfast…It is a house they plan to call home the rest of their lives.”

Guest Comments

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Below are just a few of the many reviews Bloomsbury has received in the notebooks placed in each room. Each review was handwritten by our guests and reflects their experience while staying at Bloomsbury.

31 August 2008 – Raleigh, NC
We had such a good time here @ Bloomsbury and can't wait to come back. All the little things you guys do really make this place stand out from other B&B’s. We can't wait to return.

26 July 2008 - Columbia, SC
Thank you very much for a wonderful stay. The biscuits and chocolate gravy were amazing! We appreciate everything.

13 July 2008 - Nashville, TN
Don't miss the breakfast!

30 June 2008 - Lexington, SC
From the moment we arrived everything was perfect. My husband had arranged to have flowers and champagne waiting for us in our room. With four children at home, it was a great and relaxing weekend...

21 June 2008 – Hartsville, SC
Thanks so much for a wonderful anniversary! We can't think of a better place to spend it. We think we will make it a yearly event. Breakfast was fantastic! The social hour was so nice and relaxing…just what we needed!! Hope to see you again soon!

22 May 2008 – Cincinnati, OH
Thank you for the wonderful experience last week! Your hospitality is unsurpassed!

24 April 2008 – Edinburgh, UK
We’ve had a wonderful stay here! Unforgettable hospitality in a beautiful setting – and as for those breakfasts….!

15 April 2008 – Lancaster, PA
What a wonderful experience to be your guests at Bloomsbury Inn. I don’t know what we enjoyed more – the beautiful house, the outstanding food, the dazzling conversation! Thank you so much for everything. We definitely will come back to see you on our return to South Carolina.

8 March 2008 – Charlotte, NC
“Wow! Amazing! Both of you are so amazing and your home is amazing! The one thing we will take home with us is the memory of watching the both of you talk about your home with such love and passion. Thank you for your kindness, warmth, and generous spirit!

22 February 2008 – Atlanta, GA
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in your lovely home and sincerely appreciate your generous hospitality! The rich history, peaceful atmosphere, and divine food made for a wonderful visit and one that we will truly cherish. Thank you for everything!

26 January 2008 - Franklin, TN
“Many thanks to you for making a dream come true. While growing up in Camden we often admired your home from afar. Because of your love for this home, opening the doors for others to enjoy, this has been a long awaited opportunity for us. Your hospitality has been wonderful and such an awesome breakfast meal to enjoy each day. We look forward to returning to your home again. Best to you both for much success!

1 January 2008 - Walterboro, SC
“We enjoyed ourselves very much. It always nice to get away from Walterboro and our five kids. Thanks for a great time. We really love it here! We will be back soon. Thank you.

26 December 2007 - Hilton Head, SC
“Well it’s the day after Christmas and time for us to leave Bloomsbury. It’s not going to be easy to leave this beautiful home and warm hospitality. Our stay here has been wonderful and we look forward to coming here again very soon.

19 November 2007 – Marietta, GA
“You earned and deserve to be in the Top “10” of B&Bs. We had a great time at the 2007 Colonial Cup Race. See you all in the Spring!”

2 November 2007 - Shaw AFB, South Carolina
We cannot begin to thank you for you wonderful hospitality during our stay last weekend. The accommodations were beautiful and the food exceptional. We felt as if we were staying in the home of friends we had known for years. It was a special treat learning the history of Bloomsbury and touring the fabulous grounds.

30 October 2007 - Columbia, South Carolina
Complete Utopia!

21 September 2007 - Richmond, Maryland
What a pleasure to meet you and enjoy a wonderful stay at Bloomsbury. The food was scrumptious and the company delightful. Thank you for this safe haven from our rigorous days at the Buckley School.

8 August 2007 - Lawrenceville, New Jersey
What a lovely 3 days! We thank you for wonderful food, a beautiful home and interesting conversation. It is your passion for living and love fore each other that makes this house so special.

17 July 2007
We really weren't sure what to expect other than a nice room and breakfast the next morning. Boy, were we ever surprised and delighted!! The Browns welcomed us like family, pampered us the whole visit. We only stayed one night but when we left the next day, we felt like we'd been gone much longer since we were so relaxed. The house is amazing, the food was incredible, and the Browns' were the perfect hosts.

6-7 May 2007 – San Jose, California
Beautiful home, lots of history, wine and cheese on the veranda, breakfasts to die for. Thanks for sharing it all with us.

20 April 2007 – Sedona, Arizona
Thank you for sharing your piece of paradise with the world. The charm of the South starts at Bloomsbury.

March 2007 – Dallas, Texas
WOW!! Very impressive – to say the least. Warm, beautiful, historical, tasteful, friendship, caring, presentation, sharing…on and on.

13 February 2007 – Six Mile, South Carolina
“We are awed by what you have accomplished at Bloomsbury…hospitality and generosity…breakfast was delicious…May you see even more butterflies in the future.”

24 December 2006 - Camden, South Carolina
"We enjoyed our honeymoon night in your beautiful home. It was more than we ever imagined. I'm glad we decided to try something in our hometown. Even though we were just five minutes from our home, it felt as if we had traveled away. Thank you so much. We really can see that you love what you are doing."

19 November 2006 - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
"Words can't describe how wonderful our time has been at Bloomsbury. Warm hospitality, scrumptious food and new friends..."

4 November 2006 - Baltimore, Maryland
"Your hospitality combined with the warmth and elegance of Bloomsbury provided an ideal getaway."23 September 2006 – Lavonia, Georgia
“We will certainly recommend you to our friends!”

9 August 2006 – Kershaw, South Carolina
“From the initial warm hello at the door and through the wonderful breakfast and historical tour, you made us feel so welcome in your home.

12 June 2006 - Washington DC
“It is such a thrill to get so much more than one expects. The website pictures do not do justice for Bloomsbury, and there is no way that it can capture your perfect hospitality. We have discovered the best bed and breakfast in the South.”

9 June 2006 - Unimville, Pennsylvania
“You kept your promise! I came on Monday, expecting to be a guest. I left on Friday as a friend. Thank you for four wonderful days at Bloomsbury!”

5 June 2006 - Atlanta, Georgia
“You have certainly set the benchmark for all inns to achieve and have cornered the market on Southern charm and grace. All the extras you provided, made our anniversary a most memorable time for us.”

2 May 2006 - Saint Simon's, Georgia
“You set the standard for hospitality, warmth and thoughtfulness...delicious, too.”

19 April 2006 - Jackson, Floridia
“The Buckley School is a very rewarding, intense program; I am delighted I selected Bloomsbury as it is the perfect way to begin the day and a great retreat at the end of the day.”

9 April 2006 - Concord, North Carolina
“WOW! What a wonderful world...the cousins' weekend would not have been complete without our wonderful stay at your FAB place.”

7-8 February 2006 – Colorado Springs, Colorado
“What a perfect home for a Southern belle and her refined gentleman…thank you for a wonderful evening.”

5 February 2006 – Columbia, South Carolina
“Thank you so much for this once in a lifetime experience. This was the perfect getaway!”

22 January 2006 – New Burn, North Carolina
“Staying here was such a treat! We felt so at home here. It’s like we have known ya’ll for years! Thank you so much for a wonderful visit.”

14 January 2006 – Sumter, South Carolina
“Thank you for a wonderful night’s stay at Bloomsbury. We couldn’t have picked a more elegant place to stay…Bloomsbury is even prettier in person-it far exceeds our expectations.”

2 January 2006 – Darlington, South Carolina
“You have made our stay here enjoyable and relaxing. We were very impressed with the amazing breakfast and fascinated by the rich history of your home.”