Just steps from Main Street in Rockland, Maine, proudly stands a true gem, The Captain Lindsey House on Lindsey Street. We have published stories and recipes from hundreds of hotels and inns around the world. There is a common thread that runs through the most successful establishments ever. It doesn’t matter if it’s an old fisherman’s shack on a remote island or the best hotel in Paris, it’s about the people: the people who own and run the inns.
Captain Lindsey’s House is very special. Built in 1832 by Captain George Lindsey, the current Inn has been lovingly restored by the current owners, Ken and Ellen Barnes. You on a first-name basis with Ken and Ellen, at the time Ellen meets her Cape Air flights in Rockland. They have spared no expense or detail to make their posada the most welcoming we have ever experienced. During your stay, Ken and Ellen will show up in the mornings to make sure you are comfortable and well fed.
It felt like happy old England walking into this elegant, yet homey, Maine sea captain’s home. The hall glowed with a warm fire on a rainy June afternoon. The scent of freshly cut roses and something sweet and loving from the oven filled the room. The innkeeper, Patricia, greeted him with a cup of hot herbal tea in an English china mug, with a plate of homemade oatmeal raisin cookies. Before or after unpacking, she can sink into the comfortable sofa with a book from her well-stocked library. You will feel at home.
Just around the corner from the inn are many award-winning restaurants, charming shops, galleries, museums, golf courses, lighthouses, a spa, and a beautiful harbor filled with lobster boats, schooners, and windjammers. However, we are content to curl up and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the best European-style hospitality. Another surprise awaited us when we entered our charming sanctuary filled with antiques and the most modern comforts, like Egyptian cotton towels. Not like home at all, much better.
The next morning, we met at breakfast. After fresh local fruits, juices and aromatic coffee, you can devour the special egg bake prepared by Patricia, the innkeeper. This breakfast was completed with country ham and fresh asparagus. Every morning, Patricia cheerfully offers a homemade sweet and savory dish, like French toast stuffed with real maple syrup and homemade strawberry rhubarb jam.
Captain Lindsey House is one of four historic inns in Rockland, Maine. You can visit the other three historic properties. Each one is unique, with delicious cuisine and a story to tell. You can spend time in the kitchen with each innkeeper, sampling their homemade dishes and learning about the history.
Rockland and The Captain Lindsey House, is a place for all seasons. Even though our travel schedule rarely calls for a second visit, we know we’ll be back as often as possible, for a windjammer cruise or to sample more pies at the annual “Pies On Parade” in January each year. We’d love to say we rediscovered the city of Rockand and all it has to offer. However, since Bobby Flay and Rachel Ray were also at Rockland recently, we’re guessing word got out!