HISTORY ... As you step through the doors of The Baltimore House Bed and Breakfast, you are swept back into another time and place.

Architecture This fine pressed brick home, the grandest in Baltimore, was built in 1915 by contractor, Mr. Ricketts of Bremen for Marian Sands. Mr. Sands admired the architectural styles often used by Frank Lloyd Wright: Japanese contemporary, English Arts and Crafts movement, and the Victorian preoccupation with natural environment. The home is definitely an original American Art form. There are four levels throughout the home, as well a three level carriage house and carriage port. If you are traveling in the Chicago area you will see other Frank Lloyd Wright houses built in this period that look very much like The Baltimore House.


Original Owner Mr. Sands believed in being prepared as he had the house wired for electricity in hopes that it would eventually come to Baltimore. In addition, Sands had a bunker constructed under the veranda in case there was bombing during WWI. It is also believe he constructed a secret tunnel between the house and the carriage house. During prohibition, Sands may have used the tunnel as an underground distillery. What makes this supposition believable is that he was a hay and straw dealer, bought baled hay and straw from many farms around Baltimore and Basil, Ohio shipping carloads to New York and Chicago. He could have easily shipped his contraband spirits with these shipments.

Dr. Sneeringer In 1950 Marian Sands sold his home to Dr. Sneeringer who changed it into the first medical clinic in Fairfield County. For the next twenty years many town folks passed through the doors seeking a cure for what ailed them!

Caduceus The Caduceus (the symbol of a physician) was tiled just in front of the reception desk. After 20 years of service, the caduceus was carpeted over. It stayed hidden for the next 30 years.

Bed and Breakfast The original home has been brought back to life by Bed and Breakfast proprietors, Ted and Brenda Castor. The carpet has been removed and the tile lifted so the original hardwood floors can be enjoyed (covered for over 50 years!) The Caduceus is once again visible and can be seen in the weight room. Signage noting the history and location of the Ohio - Erie Canal was just unveiled for the Ohio Bicentennial Celebration in 2003. The outdoor space has been developed into a relaxing, stress-free area with ponds, waterfalls, fountains, hot tub, and a pitch and putt golf course. When you stay at The Baltimore House, you will enjoy the special touches added to the interior decor by Brenda Castor.

The Baltimore House Bed and Breakfast, "A Place to Call Home" has developed into an inviting, relaxing environment just right for that special get-away or event, or for the harried business traveler.