A year after the devastating fire, Bedford Inn welcomes back guests to its grand Victorian inn in honor of its grand re-opening over Memorial Day weekend

CAPE MAY, NJ - May 12, 2015 - The charming Bedford Inn in Cape May is re-opening after a devastating fire in January 2014. Now, restored to its former glory with restored antiques, authentic Victorian style décor, and a few 21st century upgrades to its infrastructure, guests can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay at this timeless Cape May bed and breakfast.

"As someone who's worked in hospitality for many years it was such a rewarding experience to have the support and hospitality of my community, friends and family, and former guests when the Bedford Inn was first damaged," said Archie Kirk, owner of the Bedford Inn. " I can't thank everyone who's been involved enough, from our Cape May Fire Department, to other inns and bed and breakfasts for helping out my guests in need. I'm so happy to finally re-open the doors and say, "Welcome to the Bedford Inn."

The Grand Re-Opening Ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 23 and includes a ribbon cutting ceremony, refreshments, prizes, and something that's always abundant at the Bedford Inn: Fun. The re-opening will be a great event to celebrate Cape May's dedication to its Victorian heritage and restoration no matter what catastrophes its buildings encounter.

On January 25, 2014 at 5:26 a.m. Kirk received a call that no business owner wants to get. It was his security system operator and they had a report of a fire alarm at his bed and breakfast. Kirk called the Cape May dispatcher who told him that there was a fire and they were still fighting it. Devastated, Kirk hurried back to his inn as he received calls from concerned guests. The fire had already made the news.

Kirk was amazed and touched by the fire fighters actions to save as many antiques as possible as they were saving part of Cape May's history. Through a year and a half of hard work, construction, and restoration, the Bedford Inn is poised to welcome back guests and a new generation of Cape May visitors to the historic and unbreakable inn.

"I'm excited for our re-opening ceremony and the chance for the Cape May community and visitors to rejoice in the efforts to preserve our historical homes," said Kirk. "Like Cape May, the Bedford Inn is one of a kind and I'm ecstatic Cape May visitors will get to enjoy its splendor."