House Island History

The first European‘s to settle in what is now known as the state of Maine landed on house island in 1621.

With its proximity to the mainland and the large bay the settlers built the first houses on this island and so named it House Island.

Fast forward to the 19th century and house island with this unique position in Casco Bay was an ideal location to build a fort.
With Very little usage in the war of 1812 and then the Civil War fort Scamell is relegated to being just historic status.

In the early 1900s house island was known as the Ellis Island of the north. Thousands of immigrants were processed on this island before being allowed to enter the country.

World War II brought back the importance and prominence of this 24 acre island as again this strategic point in Casco Bay proved an essential element to the safety of the entire Atlantic Fleet that was birthed there large iron rods embedded in the island are still visible today as these iron rods were the tie in points for groups of submarine nets that kept the German submarines out of the north Atlantic Fleet birthing areas.

“House Island is one of the most unique places you will ever stay.”

After the war The Cushing family purchased the island from the US government provided many tourist with a traditional Maine lobster bake
In 2013 top quality developer Mike Scarks purchase the island and subsequently sold the north half to Christina and Mona who immediately started a complete renovation and much needed upgrading of all facilities and services.

Upstairs you are greeted with a large master bedroom (king) and bath and a walk out deck to view the grounds and see all the surrounding Island‘s breathtaking views!

Sports & Recreation Playground

This 10,000 sq.ft. artificial turf area is framed with the original foundation of solid granite from a hospital that was once there and used during the immigration of Europeans that wanted to come to US and Canada in 1904.

Enjoy this space for volleyball, Badminton, crochet, bocce ball, horseshoes, or just kicking a ball around… it can accommodate a very large tent for weddings, or hosting a grand function.