Perhaps you haven’t stayed with us yet, or perhaps you are a frequent visitor at the Hornsby House Inn. Either way, some of David’s answers to these questions are sure to surprise you!

How long have you lived in the area?

I was born in Yorktown and raised in this house. I left to get married and lived a half hour away in Williamsburg for 32 years before coming back here.

What are the best memories you have in this house?

My three brothers and I were raised here with 2 ponies and a horse in the backyard! This was the boys’ house to hang out on the weekends and although we could cause a ruccous, especially when the football players came over, Mom had written out Articles of Conduct for her sons that we were expected to adhere to always. This included date rules. We had to wear a coat and tie when taking a girl out, which we subsequently left at the bottom of the hill once we were a safe distance away! Rule #26 was ”Stand up when your elders enter the room and remain there until they tell you that’s no longer necessary.”

Can you tell us something interesting about your brother and fellow Hornsby House host, Phillip?

Phil was a pyromaniac growing up. He helps cook and clean, and like most brothers we don’t agree on anything!

What is one thing you recommend everyone do in Yorktown?

Take the driving tour that we have on CD at the Hornsby House, it’s a good history lesson. It is narrated by a British general and an American general and takes 55 minutes if you don’t get out of the car.

What is your favorite food in Yorktown?

We have SO many great restaurants around us, but I’d say Go to the Duke of York, open Thursday through Sunday (Wednesdays in the summer) for Greek salads & flounder with crabmeat on top. The servings are generous!

What made you decide to turn the Hornsby House into an Inn?

First and foremost, we wanted to keep the house in the family.

What’s the best part about owning an inn?

I have learned so much from the guests. They have taught me more history than I have told them. We’ve had some really interesting people stay with us, and I haven’t had a bad apple yet! So the best part is probably telling and hearing stories at breakfast with the guests.

If you could host one famous historical guest, who would it be?

That’s a tough choice! Either Marquis de Lafayette or George Washington.

Now you know one of your hosts here at the Hornsby House just a little better! Do you have questions? Are you ready to make a reservation? Don’t hesitate to call us or browse our site, and stay tuned for more blog posts coming soon!