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Meet the Innkeepers
Kevin and Cynthia Samsel relocated from California to Lee’s Summit, Missouri in 2017. After marrying in Northern California, they spent their honeymoon at a charming Bed and Breakfast on the Oregon Coast. The experience left such a lasting impression that it became a tradition to visit other inns for their anniversaries. These special stays sparked a dream—one day, they would open their own B&B and share the joy of hospitality with others.
Kevin & Cynthia Samsel
Your Dedicated Hosts
Chef Cynthia has a rich background in the culinary world, working in restaurants, teaching at culinary centers, and owning Classic Catering in Northern California. She’s catered for movie sets like Jim Carrey’s The Majestic and Jake Gyllenhaal’s Source Code, as well as for celebrities including Prince, The Rolling Stones, and Diana Ross during her time with Bill Graham Presents. With a Fine Arts degree, Cynthia merges her talents in creating both visual and edible art.
Kevin retired after 20 years as a public employee and now runs his handyman business. In addition to various projects, he takes pride in maintaining The Historic Browning.
Together, Kevin and Cynthia have two adult children, and five grandchildren. After hosting international exchange students for over 20 years, their travels have enriched Cynthia’s world fusion culinary style. They look forward to sharing their love of hospitality at The Historic Browning.
Meet Our Furry Friends
Faith & Tinker
Our two rescue cats, Faith and Tinker, love lounging in the sunroom, which is fully ventilated and separate from guest areas.
The Browning House
Discover Our History
Elijah T. Browning and Willis Duncan came to Lee’s Summit in 1888. They opened a small stock of merchandise in a one-room store known as Browning and Duncan’s; then only as Brownings after Duncan sold his share. They sold dry goods, notions, boots, and clothes to townspeople and farm families from miles around.
Elijah T. Browning built his family home in 1889, which is now the Historic Browning. The original family had three homes located on that corner, known as Browning Row. Only the main house, home to the Browning Bed & Breakfast, had a kitchen because the family patriarch wanted his family to come to his house to dine. The Browning Family was extremely prominent in the Lee’s Summit community and all three homes are on the National Register of Historic Places.
*Information provided by “History of Lee’s Summit, Missouri,” the Lee’s Summit Historical Society and the Lee’s Summit Tribune.
Ready to Plan Your Stay?
Whether you’re looking to book a cozy getaway or host a special event, we’re here to make it unforgettable. Reach out today to start planning your experience at The Historic Browning!