The Kitty Knight House stands as a testament to bravery and history on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This charming inn, with its rich past and ghostly tales, draws visitors from far and wide. But who was Kitty Knight, and why is her house so famous? Let’s dive into the fascinating story of this local heroine and the house that bears her name.
Who is Kitty Knight?
Catharine “Kitty” Knight was born around 1775 into a prominent family in Maryland. She grew up to be a beautiful and accomplished woman, known for her grace and charm. Kitty wasn’t just a pretty face, though. She had spunk and courage that would make her a local legend.
During her younger days, Kitty caught the eye of none other than General George Washington himself. They even danced together at a ball in Philadelphia during a session of the Continental Congress. Can you imagine twirling around the dance floor with the future first president? That must have been quite a night for young Kitty!
But it wasn’t her dance moves that made Kitty famous. It was her brave stand against the British during the War of 1812 that cemented her place in history.
Kitty Knight Known Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Catharine “Kitty” Knight |
| Birth Year | Approximately 1775 |
| Death Year | 1855 |
| Birthplace | Maryland, United States |
| Known For | Saving houses from British destruction during the War of 1812 |
| Notable Event | Confronted British Admiral George Cockburn |
| Residence | Georgetown, Maryland |
| Occupation | Unknown |
| Family | Daughter of John Leach and Catherine Matthews Knight |
| Legacy | Kitty Knight House, local heroine status |
Where Does Kitty Knight Live Now?
Well, Kitty Knight doesn’t live anywhere now, since she passed away in 1855. But her spirit? That’s a different story! Many folks believe Kitty’s ghost still hangs around the house she saved, keeping an eye on things just like she did back in 1813.
Kitty Knight House
The Kitty Knight House isn’t just one building, but two houses joined together. These houses, the William Henry House and the Archibald Wright House were connected around 1935 to create the inn we see today.
Sitting pretty on a hill overlooking the Sassafras River, the Kitty Knight House has become a popular spot for history buffs, ghost hunters, and folks just looking for a cozy place to stay. It’s got that classic Colonial look, with brick walls and big windows that have seen over two centuries of history roll by.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of old-world charm and modern comforts. The rooms are decked out with period furniture, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rough it like they did in the 1800s – there are plenty of modern amenities to keep you comfy.
The house isn’t just a place to sleep, though. It’s also home to a restaurant that serves up tasty meals with a side of river views. Imagine tucking into a hearty dinner while gazing out at the same waters that once carried British warships. Pretty cool, right?
1. Luxury Amenities of Kitty Knight House
- River view rooms
- On-site restaurant
- Bar and lounge area
- Event spaces for weddings and meetings
- Free Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Private bathrooms
- Flat-screen TVs
- Outdoor seating areas
2. Inside Kitty Knight’s Home
When you step into the Kitty Knight House, you’re walking on the same floorboards that Kitty herself once trod. The inn has kept much of its historic charm, with wooden beams, fireplaces, and antique furnishings scattered throughout.
The rooms are cozy and inviting, each with its personality. Some have four-poster beds that’ll make you feel like royalty, while others offer stunning views of the Sassafras River. Can you imagine waking up to the same view that Kitty saw every morning?
Downstairs, you’ll find the dining room where guests gather for meals. The walls are adorned with paintings and photos that tell the story of Kitty and the house’s history. It’s like eating in a living museum!
One of the coolest spots in the house is Kitty’s former bedroom. This is where paranormal investigators have reported the most activity. Some guests have felt sudden cold spots or heard unexplained noises. Is it just the old house settling, or is Kitty still keeping watch over her beloved home?
3. Kitty Knight House Then and Now
| Then (1813) | Now (2024) |
|---|---|
| Two separate houses | One connected inn |
| Private residences | Public inn and restaurant |
| No electricity or plumbing | Modern amenities |
| Candlelit rooms | Electric lighting |
| Heated by fireplaces | Central heating and air conditioning |
| Dirt roads for access | Paved roads and parking lot |
| Wartime tensions | Peaceful tourist destination |
| Kitty Knight in residence | Kitty Knight’s spirit (allegedly) |
4. How did Kitty Knight design her house to reflect her personality?
Kitty Knight didn’t design the house herself. The two original houses were built in the 1700s, long before Kitty’s heroic stand. But the way she lived in the house and the stories that grew around her have shaped how we see it today.
The house reflects Kitty’s personality in its strength and resilience. Just like Kitty stood up to the British, the house has stood the test of time, weathering storms and changes for over 200 years.
The open, welcoming nature of the inn today also mirrors what we know of Kitty’s character. She was brave enough to confront an admiral to save not just her own home, but her neighbor’s too. That spirit of hospitality lives on in the way the inn welcomes guests from all over.
How Much is Kitty Knight House Worth?
The exact worth of the Kitty Knight House isn’t public knowledge, but we can make some educated guesses based on its history and location.
- Build year: Late 1700s
- Purchase year (by Kitty Knight): 1836
- Purchase value (in 1836): Unknown
- Recent estimated value: Several million dollars (exact figure unavailable)
- Area: Approximately 1-2 acres
- House style: Colonial
- Architectural design: Georgian
- House condition: Well-maintained historic property
- Full address: 14028 Augustine Herman Highway, Georgetown, MD 21930
The value of the Kitty Knight House goes beyond just dollars and cents. Its historical significance and the tourism it brings to the area make it a priceless asset to the community.
Breakdown of Kitty Knight Real Estate
Kitty Knight’s real estate history is pretty straightforward. She didn’t own a bunch of fancy houses or flip properties like some modern celebrities.
Previous houses: Before moving into what we now call the Kitty Knight House, Kitty likely lived with her parents. We don’t have specific details about her childhood home.
Current house: The Kitty Knight House in Georgetown, Maryland. This is the house she famously saved from the British and later purchased in 1836.
Neighborhood: The house sits in the small, historic town of Georgetown, overlooking the Sassafras River. It’s a quiet, rural area known for its natural beauty and connection to early American history.
Kitty lived in this house from 1836 until she died in 1855. After her passing, the house changed hands several times before becoming the inn we know today.
Conclusion
The Kitty Knight House is more than just a place to stay – it’s a living piece of American history. From its roots in the War of 1812 to its current status as a cozy inn, this house has seen it all. Kitty Knight’s bravery in the face of British troops has turned what could have been just another old house into a celebrated landmark.
Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost hunter, or just someone looking for a unique getaway, the Kitty Knight House has something for everyone. Its blend of colonial charm and modern comforts, coupled with its fascinating backstory, makes it a must-visit destination on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
So next time you’re in the area, why not stop by? Who knows – you might even catch a glimpse of Kitty herself, still watching over the house she loved so much. After all, some spirits are just too strong to fade away, and Kitty Knight’s spirit is as strong as they come.