A new gathering place blending historic charm with modern comfort is now open in Dayton.
The West Wing Guest Inn, a joint venture between Susan Simmons and Elizabeth Beausoleil, officially opened with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Trinity Valley Chamber of Commerce on Friday, May 1. Despite rainy weather, dozens of people turned out to celebrate, filling the inn to capacity.
Located at 1204 N. Main Street next to Simmons’ home – the historic Walter S. Neel Home, the guest inn offers a setting for bridal and baby showers, receptions, retreats and other small gatherings. Simmons serves as the property owner and innkeeper, while Beausoleil handles marketing and operations.
For Simmons, the opening marks the realization of a long-held dream shaped by years of planning and unexpected challenges.
Though she has been part of the Dayton community for many years, Simmons said her appreciation for inns began during her childhood.
“I was born in Harrisburg, Penn., and we traveled a lot in New England, staying in rooming houses, inns and motels,” she said. “I love the inn part where you just get to visit with people, and you’re sort of clamoring up the steps. I always wanted to do that, but if I click my heels, I’m not going to be in New England. I’m in Dayton, Texas, and I’m so thankful that John bought this property.”
Simmons and her late husband John Simmons purchased the property many years ago prior to his death.
She said the idea for the inn began taking shape about four years ago, with more detailed planning starting three years ago. The project faced several hurdles, including working with multiple contractors and recovering from a fire that destroyed the building that now houses the guest inn.
“At one point, my home next door was going to be the bed and breakfast,” Simmons said. “But after the fire, I just couldn’t do it. This place is a lot more manageable, so this is where we are today.”
With the rebuilding effort, Simmons was able to start fresh, creating a space designed specifically for hosting guests and events. The name, The West Wing Guest Inn, was suggested by friend Dwight Lumpkins, a nod to Simmons’ large white historic home next door.
The inn can accommodate up to four overnight guests and host small gatherings, offering an intimate setting for a variety of occasions.
Beausoleil said the venue is already being used and is available for a wide range of events.
“We have the grounds prepared for weddings, and we can host corporate events, birthdays and other celebrations, even celebrations of life,” she said. “We can accommodate around 25 guests and about 15 vehicles out front, so these are smaller events that need to be prebooked.”
She said the venue has already hosted a proposal, a wedding and a ladies event.
“It’s been tested, and it passed the test,” Beausoleil said. “We’d love for people to book events.”
Reservations and event inquiries can be made through the website at www.westwingguestinn.com.
Beausoleil added that additional events are being planned, including a small “meet the author” gathering and a fall art event featuring local artists displaying work on easels in the yard, with pieces expected to be available for purchase.