Margaret Grade, a California neuropsychologist turned innkeeper, passed away on February 28 at the age of 72. Known for her unique and eclectic inn near the Point Reyes National Seashore, Ms. Grade’s unexpected career shift captured the hearts of many.
Despite her initial lack of knowledge about running an establishment, Ms. Grade’s inn, Manka’s Inverness Lodge, became a beloved retreat for farmers, fishers, film stars, and writers alike. With a keen ability to anticipate guests’ desires and a knack for creating a whimsical atmosphere, she left a lasting impression on all who visited.
Born in Wisconsin, Ms. Grade’s journey to becoming an innkeeper was unconventional. After a successful career in psychology and medical research, she stumbled upon the inn in 1989 and decided to take a leap of faith. With the help of her siblings, she transformed the inn into a culinary haven, attracting big names like Robert Redford, Sean Penn, and Thomas Keller.
Ms. Grade’s commitment to hyperlocal food and her dedication to creating a magical experience for her guests set her apart in the hospitality industry. Despite facing challenges, such as the loss of her inn in a fire in 2006, she continued to persevere and create new ventures, including the acclaimed Sir and Star restaurant.
Her brother Matthew described her as someone who made laws and rigid structures evaporate, always willing to push boundaries to create something extraordinary. Ms. Grade’s legacy lives on through the memories of those who experienced her unique brand of hospitality at Manka’s Inverness Lodge.
