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As
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Sketch and Travel
Article: Norm
Goldman
Art Work: Lily Azerad-Goldman
 More 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 photos 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!"
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