The Etta Mae Inn is rich in history and tells the story of urban development and the transition to modern day Takoma Park.

Takoma Park residents opened their newspapers one November morning in 1964 to discover that something called the North Central Freeway would soon come right through their neighborhood. The Save Takoma Park Committee was soon formed to raise money and support, which eventually brought down the freeway proposal in 1970. Their efforts helped save numerous parks and playgrounds as well as many historical neighborhoods.

Etta Mae Davis was the outspoken leader of the Save Takoma Park Committee. In her testimony before the House Subcommittee on Public Roads, Mrs. Davis said:

"One saving grace in the fight to save my own home is I have been involved with people of all backgrounds, colors, capabilities, and politics to save their own homes and the Nation's Capital... I am a conservative and I like that word as I believe in conserving. I would like to see a committee established to take a long look at what man is doing to his environment today... I shudder when I think of the heritage we are leaving our children..."

Her words still ring true today. Her home that she fought so hard to defend is still standing. It is the Grahill-Davis house at 703 New York Avenue.

The home was purchased by Jim and Francoise Evans in 1987. Jim, an engineer, used his skills as a handyman to restore the house to its original glory. Francoise came over to this country as an au pair from Holland against the wishes of her father. She fell in love with the country (and Jim) and has been here ever since. Her unique Dutch style is present throughout the house from the fresh cooked pastries to the room decor.

They have helped keep the house a part of the Takoma Park community with annual Easter egg hunts, gingerbread house making contests, and countless weddings and other social gatherings. They are proud of the home's history and hope you will come be their guest.