History of the Dot 2 Dot Inn
formerly the Reid-Griffith House build in 1844
Reid-Griffith House 1844
Formerly the Reid-Griffith House, located at 200 South Washington Avenue, it was built in 1844 by Edmond Reid. It was Eatonton’s first white-columned mansion. The four-over-four room residence was raised a half story over a brick floored basement and anchored by massive granite-faced foundation walls, unique among houses in Putnam county. It was owned by descendants of Edmund Reid until the 1890’s.
It then changed ownership several times; Alfred Davis, an Eatonton pharmacist sold to Dr. E. F. Griffith, a physician, and his wife, Mrs Leila Turner Griffith, a music teacher, who retained ownership for the next 70 years. It was purchased by the Haband Company in the 1980’s and used as a corporate house for guests and employees. It was also used as a venue for events sponsored by Eatonton-Putnam County Historical Society, the Eatonton Literary Festival, and the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce.
With its antebellum style, the house is spacious with high ceilings, tall windows and wide hallways. The 2 acres of garden are filled with mature trees and shrubbery, a classic stone fountain and plenty of shady spots to relax in. We are also right in the heart of downtown Eatonton.
For a more detailed history of the house, its owners and their times, please see here.
Our family
I was born and bred in London, graduated from King’s College London, and later attended the Tante Marie Cordon Bleu school. I opened a catering business serving the central London area, providing food for large events often held in the British Academy with a clientele that ranged from many of the universities to Oxfam (London Marathon event) as well as numerous private functions.
My husband, son, and I moved to the US almost 13 years ago and made our home in Boston. I opened the Dot 2 Dot Café in Dorchester, specializing in brunch, with everything made from scratch. We gained a reputation for our food with specials like brioche French toast and corned beef hash. Dinners were served at events, allowing me to diversify my food to embrace world cuisines, and not be tied to a set menu. The café became a community spot, offering everything from open mics, live music, small theatrical productions, wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, and more. Last year, after 9 years, I sold the café and we decided to try something very different by moving to the South.
As with the café, my goal is to bring people of all nationalities and backgrounds, together under one roof. In our differences, we find strength and commonality. I’ve kept the Dot 2 Dot name to emphasize the possibilities that exist by meeting and connecting with others. Lasting friendships can grow out of chance meetings, as I witnessed many times at my café. My goal is to offer that same hospitality here in Eatonton, which you will find to be a very welcoming town. I want you to have the experience of staying in an Antebellum home, enjoy its space and tranquility, with the added bonus of a gourmet breakfast and freshly baked treats.
We look forward to your stay.