Oldfarm 6: Hospitality & Importance of Oldfarm

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NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

44.374303, -68.192649

Hospitality & Importance of Oldfarm

George B. Dorr once reflected on the careful decision his family made in selecting the site for their home, writing, “the site that my mother, father and I chose for the Oldfarm house in the fall of 1878, was the broad, flat top of an old sea cliff, facing north to the Gouldsboro Hills across the long reach of Upper Frenchmans Bay.” The choice of location was no accident—it was a deliberate embrace of the island’s wild beauty, offering sweeping views of the bay and distant hills that stirred a sense of awe and tranquility.

While the main house was still being built, George and his father, Charles Dorr, constructed a smaller retreat nearby called Storm Beach Cottage in 1879, tucked just to the east. This simple but sturdy structure allowed the family to begin spending summers on the property while work continued on Oldfarm. Today, the National Park Service utilizes this historic structure as seasonal housing for park employees, providing essential accommodations for staff during the busy summer months. By residing in a building once inhabited by George B. Dorr, the "Father of Acadia," park staff are immersed in the legacy of conservation and stewardship that Dorr championed.

Once completed, Oldfarm quickly grew into more than just a private residence—it became a welcoming hub for visitors, family friends, artists, and fellow conservationists. George Dorr, known for his graciousness and hospitality, often hosted guests who came to experience the island’s beauty firsthand. The estate was known not only for its stunning location but also for its thoughtful details, such as the criss-cross brick pattern on the veranda floor, a subtle but elegant feature that added to the home’s charm.

Duration:

1 minute, 10 seconds

Station Six of the Oldfarm Video Tour