A Great Wedding or Romantic Getaway Destination In Southern Maine-York Harbor InnBy Norm GoldmanMore than 400 years ago the first settlers from England and Scotland landed in York Maine settling at the mouth of the York River and for the most part they were farmers, fishermen, and merchants who supported themselves through maritime commerce. In fact, it was in 1632 that the first incorporated city in America and one of New England’s earliest colonial settlements was established at the costal site of York, Maine.  Gradually, as the American society underwent tremendous changes during the latter part of the 19th century, the tourist industry began to emerge as one of the primary means of support for the inhabitants of the area. It was during this era that many new hotels and guest houses were built to accommodate the ever expanding number of visitors in and around York Harbor, as it became a summer escape from June to September for many a literary and cultural notable as well as the affluent or as they often were referred to as “the old settlers.”
One of these summer lodging establishments was the Hillcroft Inn which was the forerunner of the present day York Harbor Inn. The Inn’s tavern, which was initially a horse stable, became part of a restaurant and was named “The Cellar.” As Gary Dominguez, the present owner of The York Harbor Inn pointed out to us, the hitching post still exits outside of present day Ship’s Cellar Pub located in the lower level of the Inn. By the way, don’t forget to lunch or dine here, where the atmosphere as well as the food will blow you away! As the French say, it was a “délice,” particularly the Haddock battered in Beer with French fries as well as the Seafood Ravioli. It is as if we were dining below deck in a well-appointed sailing vessel with its stunning display of fine woodwork and carpentry. And while you are at it, be sure to also check out the Cabin Room located in the center of the inn where you will find a post and beam cabin that was once located eight miles out to sea on the Isles of Shoals. This prize piece of history dates back to 1637 when it was used as a sail loft room. Apparently, sailors would wrap their sails over its huge beams in order to work on them and dry them next to the roaring large fieldstone fireplace. In the 1800s it had been taken apart and floated by barge to the mainland. It was in 1978 when the Dominguez brothers, George, Joe and Gary, came on the scene when the York Harbor Inn was in a dilapidated state and just about on its last legs. The brothers commenced their operation with one building and 12 rooms and today it has expanded to five buildings comprising fifty-four rooms, all with private bathrooms- something that was lacking when they purchased their first building. In 1983 the Yorkshire House (circa 1783), which is an historic building adjacent to the Inn was purchased and subsequently in 1997 the Harbor Cliffs located on the east side of the Inn became part of the complex. The Harbor Hill Inn, next to the Yorkshire House, was opened in 2001 with its seven spacious rooms. It resembles a Grand New England Cottage and each of the rooms features ocean views, gas fireplaces, Jacuzzi spa tubs, king beds and many more amenities. In 2005 the 1730 Harbor Crest Inn was added with its beautiful seven rooms that are comparable to the charm and intimacy of a private home. This addition is located about one half of a mile from the York Harbor Inn along scenic route 1A. What is amazing about the Dominguez brothers is they started on a shoestring budget with little capital but an abundance of enthusiasm and perseverance. Today, Gary is the Innkeeper and Manager, Joe is a kind of silent partner and consultant, while George is no longer involved. The brothers’ 89 year old father also helps out.  As my wife and I sat in a comfortable chaise in front of the Inn wiggling our bare toes under the midday sun and listening to the sound of the ocean waves, we were quite impressed with the Inn’s view over York Harbor. However, what most intrigued us was that this view was not always there. Gary indicated to us that the view was obstructed by several run down cottages that were owned by a well to-do businessman, Hartland Mason, whose last will and testament directed that upon the death of his last descendent the cottages were to be removed and the area turned into a park, which did in fact occur in 1998 amidst objections from some individuals.
This was quite a bonanza for the York Harbor Inn when you consider that couples can now celebrate their marriage ceremonies in the park known as the Hartland Mason Reservation Park within an historic seaside setting and follow up with their reception at the Inn-setting the stage for perfect wedding venue where you can also take some breathtaking of the couple and their guests. Gary did mention that up until 2006’ weddings were not permitted in the park, however, after he met with one of the trustees and suggested to him that it would be nice for couples to have their ceremonies in the park, approval was granted. It should be mentioned that the use of the park is restricted to wedding ceremonies only-no wedding receptions are allowed. Furthermore, there are specific rules in place and the trustees must approve any wedding ceremonies that are booked in the park. Gary and his staff can point you in the right direction in order to fulfill all of the formalities. If you prefer to start your marriage in the soft Maine sand, there is Harbor Beach that is just a short walk from the Inn. As for the reception, The York Harbor Inn distinguishes itself with having over 5,000 square feet of banquet and dining space to accommodate weddings of all sizes from intimate to extravagant. Seven private and elegantly decorated function rooms are available-some with fireplaces and fantastic ocean views. The crown jewel is the Yorkshire Ballroom with 3000 square feet and a 35 foot cathedral ceiling as well as a dramatic skylight atrium. In addition, if you are worried about how to entertain your guests, fret not as they can steal away and enjoy many of the attractions the area is known for such as boating, fishing, swimming, golf, visiting lighthouses and historical attractions, shopping in Kittery or just strolling on the many beaches located in and around York Harbor. Guests will find in their rooms directions for walks to such places as Wiggly Bridge, the Marginal Way and the Harbor as well as many other hidden gems in the area. And at the end of the day, the Inn’s Ocean View Restaurant provides just the right atmosphere for relaxation and culinary indulgence after an action-packed day outdoors. The restaurant’s Chef Bonsey, who has been with the Inn for twenty-six years, was recently selected as one of the top chefs in Maine by Portland Magazine and it has been featured in Food & Wine Magazine. Chef Bonsey’s innovative cuisine introduces guests to the pleasures of Maine dining and regional entrées range from local seafood, including shrimp, scallops, haddock, lobster to various meats. The Inn’s wine cellar comprises about 85-90 bottles offering great California and International choices. Like the beautiful State of Maine, the warm and cozy atmosphere of the Inn and its restaurants are unhurried, unspoiled and unassuming. A perfect romantic destination! ADDITIONAL INFORMATION York Harbor Inn
Coastal Rte 1A
Tel: 800-343-3869: 207-363-5119
Email: info@yorkharborinn.com
Web Site: www.yorkharborinn.com Official Website of York Maine Wiggly Bridge Marginal Way Footpath Norm Goldman is the Editor of www.Sketchandtravel.com and www.Bookpleasures.com. He and his artist wife, Lily Azerad-Goldman meld Norm’s words with Lily’s art work, and their articles can be seen on www.Sketchandtravel.com. | 