Maine is full of lovely B&Bs, but one, in particular, stands out as special. We think one of the most wonderful things about these homes in Maine is the history that comes with each one. Some are more personal and come with stories of families who have lived in and owned the home for generations. Others are tied to the history of the making of the state. But, the Waldo Emerson Inn in Kennebunk comes with a history that was surprising to us – it was built by the family of the American author!
The Waldo Emerson Inn is the oldest house in Kennebunk still standing.
Waldo Emerson / Facebook It has had many famous owners over the years and still holds much of its original charm.
The house was originally built in 1753 by the great uncle of Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook He made his career from building clipper ships on the Kennebunk River directly behind the house.
It was eventually inherited by Theodore Lyman when he married Waldo Emerson’s daughter.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook Lyman added onto the house in 1784 and gifted the larger home to his second wife.
However, our favorite thing about the inn is its rich Underground Railroad history.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
There are a variety of secret hiding places in the cellar and attics that are a holdover from these days.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
The house was then sold to John Bourne, father of George Washington Bourne who built the famous Wedding Cake House next door!
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
Upon entering the Inn, you’ll be in the 255-year-old keeping room with hand-hewn oak timbers above.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
The Inn has six wonderful, cozy rooms and each has its own handmade quilts, antiques, working fireplaces and private baths with heated marble tiled floors.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
And, not surprisingly, the Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
For Mainers who love history, this is a must-see while in the area.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
Visit them at 108 Summer Street in Kennebunk or give them a call on (877) 521-8776. Click here for their website.
Waldo Emerson / Facebook
It has had many famous owners over the years and still holds much of its original charm.
Waldo Emerson Inn / Facebook
He made his career from building clipper ships on the Kennebunk River directly behind the house.
Lyman added onto the house in 1784 and gifted the larger home to his second wife.
For more Maine B&Bs, check out our article on ten of the best in the state by clicking here.
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