Our Story

This home is a noteworthy example of the Colonial Revival style residence embellished with an abundance of ornate Neo-Classical Revival ornamentation, this impressive house was erected in 1901 for industrialist Noah Burfoot (1853-1928), and his wife, Rennie Bur-foot. The large five-bay by three-bay house is sheltered beneath a hip roof and has a broad wrap-around porch carried by Tuscan columns. The focus of the design, however, is the splendid semi-circular front bay. Crowned by an exuberant flourish of a wooden ribbon-and-tassel garland and dentiled cornice, the bay has one-over-one sash windows containing curved panes, a rare and expensive feature. A paneled apron, slate covered dormer, and modillioned porch cornice accentuate the bay. The spacious center-hall plan interior has an elegant finish. The handsome closed-stringer stair in the hall is framed by an elliptical arch, while the paneled newels are embellished with applied floral and foliate motifs. Mirrored over-mantels and stylishly reserved woodwork complete the house.

The Burfoots sold the house in 1925 and in 1939 it was purchased by Milton Needham Toxey (1884-1968). Here he and his wife, Mary (Forbes) Toxey, operated Toxey and Berry Funeral Home with Zebulon B. and Annie (Crawley) Berry until 1964, when the Berrys moved the business north of town. Mrs. Toxey remained here until 1977 when the property was sold. It when then purchased by the legal offices of Ronald G. Penny and Harold Barnes.

-The Architectural Heritage of Elizabeth City and Pasquotank County, North Carolina.

The home is now under the care and renovation of The Bretz Family - A story much like a Hallmark Movie.

With dreams of creating a unique haven for travelers seeking solace and a touch of history, we decided to embark on a grand adventure. We envisioned transforming this forgotten treasure into a charming Tea House & Bed and Breakfast, where guests could step back in time and experience the elegance and grace of the Victorian era.

The process of restoring the old Victorian home was a labor of love. We poured our hearts into preserving its authentic features, meticulously restoring the ornate crown moldings, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork. Each room became a canvas, carefully adorned with statement furniture, unique wallpapers, and curtains. As the renovation progressed, our vision expanded - this is where the concept of Tea Rooms was confirmed. We decided to add a touch of whimsy and create a haven for tea enthusiasts. Main Street Tea House is a place where delicate tea cups clink, and the aroma of freshly brewed tea & scones permeate the air. Locally sourced, Poured With Love.

We sourced antique tea sets from far and wide, each with its own unique story. Our shelves filled with an array of loose-leaf teas, carefully curated to provide a sensory journey for our guests. The tea rooms will be a sanctuary, where patrons will indulge in a tranquil afternoon tea experience, accompanied by delectable treats and engaging conversations creating memories.

Finally, the day arrived when we flung open the doors of Main Street Tea House and the story continues…