The Shadow
The Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism sponsored a ribbon cutting at the Old Parsonage House, Clifton Forge, last Tuesday morning.
“We appreciate the investment and continued investment that you are making in the area,” said Teresa Hammond, Executive Director, Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, to the owners, John and Kimberly Fink. “What a great way to offer another unique lodging opportunity or option for folks who are visiting the area,” she added before introducing Jon Fitzgerald, Treasurer, AHCC&T.
“What you have done here is wonderful and we welcome you to Virginia,” said Fitzgerald. “Places like this we need and to take the time and effort to preserve a piece of history is just absolutely amazing,” he added in conclusion.
Clifton Forge Mayor, Jeff Irvine, and Covington Mayor Tom Sibold both thanked the Finks for their investment in the community. “We have a hard time finding places to put auditors when they come to stay for a few days so I will keep y’all in mind,” added Sibold.
“I enjoy new business that comes to town, the more the merrier,” said Ronald Goings, Alleghany County Board of Supervisors, Clifton Forge East District. “I appreciate everything you do and hopefully your coming here will encourage other people to come,” added Goings. “So, thank you and I hope you become very active in the community,” said Goings in conclusion.
“They have a lot of vision and tons of energy,” said Bryan Thompson, Alleghany Highlands Economic Development Corporation, of the owners. “We are glad that you brought all of that with you to the Alleghany Highlands and we are continuing to look forward to working with you on future projects,” added Thompson, rounding out the speakers’ portion of the program.
“We are very grateful for all of you all and for all of the support that you are offering,” said John Fink. The group then assembled on the porch for a photo before being invited back inside for a tour of the house.
The Old Parsonage House was built in 1897 and purchased in 1918 as a parsonage for the First Christian Church. It once served as a place for many church functions and hundreds of weddings. The home contains five fireplaces and several original fixtures including the original brass fireplace screens and a trio of spacious suites.
John and Kimberly Fink recently purchased and renovated the home, and it is once again serving the community, this time as a bed and breakfast. The Old Parsonage House is located at 409 Church St.
