OUR STORY
SINCE 1954
We are rooted in the nature and history that surrounds us. Proudly independently owned and operated by individuals passionate about hospitality that embodies the local charm and spirit unique to Colonial Williamsburg.
THE PAST
The land the motel sits on was passed down through three generations of the Bryhn family. The vacant land was first purchased in the 1930s by George A. Bryhn, using proceeds from selling his historic home on Duke of Gloucester Street to the Rockefellers as part of their large-scale Colonial Williamsburg preservation effort. A house to one side of the property was constructed and is still occupied to this day by a member of the family.
1952: George A. Bryhn and his son George W. Bryhn begin construction of Motel Rochambeau.
1954: First documented guest, operated by George W. and his wife Susan, parents to the next generation, Barbara, Rebecca, and David, they charged guests $4.00 a night for their stay.
1960: Robert Kennedy stays at the Rochambeau while his brother John Kennedy campaigned in Williamsburg for president.
1967: Conversion of original breezeway to Lobby, addition of a manager's quarters, and installation of new neon “Motel” sign out front.
The Future
2023: Barbara, Becky, and David agree to sell the Rochambeau to Lyle Schiavone, a Williamsburg native, who begins a year-long process to explore the feasibility of bringing new life to the hotel.
October 2023: Lyle secures a partnership with the City of Williamsburg’s Economic Development Authority and involves his sister, Anna, as Creative Director, to help bring the vision to life.
2024: Lyle, with the backing of a small group of local investors, closes on the property in January. Demolition begins in March, with major restoration efforts starting in early May.
December 2024: We’re open! The first 11 guest rooms, including the Generals Quarters suite, and the new front lobby were completed and ready to welcome our first visitors.
February 2025: Our second building opens—adding 11 more guest rooms, including family suites and our custom-designed bunk rooms.
Later 2025: Exciting plans are on the horizon! We’re continuing to grow with enhanced guest amenities, new outdoor gathering spaces, and more ways to immerse yourself in the story of the Rochambeau—stay tuned for the next chapter.
Lyle and Anna Schiavone pictured with previous owner David Bryhn
Our Namesake
Our namesake, Comte de Rochambeau, was a French nobleman and general whose army played a remarkable role in shaping the course of history during the American Revolutionary War.
In 1781, leading an expeditionary force of 5,500 soldiers from France, Rochambeau joined forces with the American Continental Army under the command of General George Washington. Together, they bravely confronted and ultimately triumphed over the British Army at the pivotal Battle of Yorktown.
The siege of Yorktown stands as the defining moment of the American Revolutionary War. This legendary battle forced the surrender of British General Cornwallis and his entire army. Consequently, this victory paved the way for America's hard-fought independence.
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The Colonial Capital
A destination rich in historic sites, restaurants, boutique shopping and activities like golfing, kayaking, hiking and more. The best part? Colonial Williamsburg is just a quick bike ride from our hotel.
See You Soon!
Discover the newly renovated Rochambeau Roadside Inn, conveniently located at the gateway to historic Colonial Williamsburg. This boutique property features 22 thoughtfully curated rooms.
