Giddens Do Drop Inn
Overview & Location
Giddens’ Do-Drop Inn is located at 8204 Bayford Road, Weirwood, Virginia.
It’s often listed in relation to Nassawadox / Northampton County (Eastern Shore) as well.
The Inn was founded in 1967 by Lloyd Henry Giddens and Annie Maude Baines Giddens.
Cultural & Historical Significance
It’s one of the oldest continuously owned and operated African-American businesses on the Virginia Eastern Shore.
Originally, it not only served as a restaurant/lounge but also as a safe gathering place for Black residents during times when racial segregation limited where people could socialize.
The building itself has symbolic meaning: Giddens had to repurpose materials from an older house to build the Do-Drop Inn after a bank would not lend him $2,000 to start construction.
Over the years, it hosted music performances, social events, and community / civic gatherings.
In the 50th anniversary celebrations (circa 2017–2018), local radio and television helped highlight its legacy.
Operations & Current Status
The current owner is Jane “Mama Jane” Cabarrus, the youngest daughter of the founders.
Jane took over the operation after her father’s death (around 1988).
In recent years, the Do-Drop Inn hasn’t always been open daily but has held special events and limited food services.
Giddens Do Drop Inn
Overview & Location
Giddens’ Do-Drop Inn is located at 8204 Bayford Road, Weirwood, Virginia.
It’s often listed in relation to Nassawadox / Northampton County (Eastern Shore) as well.
The Inn was founded in 1967 by Lloyd Henry Giddens and Annie Maude Baines Giddens.
Cultural & Historical Significance
It’s one of the oldest continuously owned and operated African-American businesses on the Virginia Eastern Shore.
Originally, it not only served as a restaurant/lounge but also as a safe gathering place for Black residents during times when racial segregation limited where people could socialize.
The building itself has symbolic meaning: Giddens had to repurpose materials from an older house to build the Do-Drop Inn after a bank would not lend him $2,000 to start construction.
Over the years, it hosted music performances, social events, and community / civic gatherings.
In the 50th anniversary celebrations (circa 2017–2018), local radio and television helped highlight its legacy.
Operations & Current Status
The current owner is Jane “Mama Jane” Cabarrus, the youngest daughter of the founders.
Jane took over the operation after her father’s death (around 1988).
In recent years, the Do-Drop Inn hasn’t always been open daily but has held special events and limited food services.