There are not many companies around today that can boast being 100 years old.  L.L. Bean is one of the best and celebrates their 100-year anniversary this year, 2012 and we are pleased, and proud, to call the same town “home.”

LL Bean is just one of the many stores here in Freeport and one that is rich in history.  The great success of this company comes from their core values: take care of the customer and the customer will take care of the rest.  For anyone visiting LL Bean for the first time, you will immediatley notice the service level of every employee.  They strive to take care of each and every customer, greeting them as they walk through the doors.  Our guests are often amazed at the attention they receive while in the stores.  This commitment to detail and customers is what has made LL Bean so successful and still standing after 100 years. 

Innovation and the ability to invent new things also help to keep LL Bean fresh and inviting to customers.  The Outdoor Discovery School is one that is a favorite we like to recommend to our guests.  It provides a great opportunity to turn your vacation into an adventure by trying something new; try kayaking, fly-fish casting, archery, or clay shooting.  Each adventure lasts about 2 hours and costs just $20.00/person, all instruction and equipment provided.  The personnel are knowledgable, fun, and truly enjoy their work.  Other adventures include biking tours and paddle boarding.  All for your enjoyment .  Guests who have tried these have really had a great time!

There are many events throughout the year to celebrate this milestone, the big event being around the July 4th weekend.  The town will be all decked out in its “hometown finest” to celebrate, including our parade, amazing fireworks, free concerts in LL Bean’s Discovery Park, and many other events.  All of this to celebrate a great company, a commitment to excellence and the wonderful town we all call home.

Many people often associate Freeport with shopping and are delightfully surprised to find out how much there is to see and do throuhout the area.  They are also surprised to learn how much history there is in Freeport and the part Freeport played in the War of 1812.

One of the peculiar aspects of the War of 1812 was government licensing of private armed vessels.  Commonly known as privateers, each vessel received a “Letter of Marque and Reprisal” signed by the President.  These privateers, although not part of the fledgling United States Navy, were nevertheless authorized “to subdue, seize and take” enemy vessels as prizes and to keep or sell the “apparel, guns and appurtenances.”  They were essentially licensed pirates

Freeport was home to a famous Privateer, The Dash.  Dash was built at Porters Landing, Freeport, Maine in 1813 by master builder James Brewer for Seward, Samuel, and William Porter, all born and raised at Porters Landing and part of a family which included twelve brothers.  Most were involved with the sea in some fashion.  Dash, a fast topsail schooner, was designed to evade the Embargo keeping American shipping bottled up in harbors all along the East Coast and the Canadian border.  She was successful in breaking the Portland blockade and made several quick runs to the West Indies, where she  exchanged lumber and other local crops for profitable cargoes such as coffee and sugar cane.

During 1813 and early 1814 she made three voyages, successfully evading the Royal Navy and United States port restrictions.  At some point during this period she was re-rigged as a hermaphrodite brig with a special “ringtail sail” to increase her already impressive spread of canvas.  She was fast!

Dash, under the command of John Porter, continued to take other prizes on subsequent voyages during the fall of 1814.  A total of fifteen prize vessels were taken without a single injury to any of her crew.

After a short layover in Portland in January, 1815 Porter took Dash to sea.  With her was the new privateer Champlain, a schooner from Portsmouth, waiting to test her own speed against that of Dash.  Dash gradually pulled ahead over the next day.  When a heavy winter gale came on, Champlain changed her course, but Dash kept on.  She was never heard from again.  It is assumed that Capt. Porter underestimated his speed and lost his vessel on the treacherous shoals of Georges Bank.  Sixty men, including John, Jeremiah, and Ebenezer Porter, and thirteen others from Freeport, were among those lost.

Dash was known as a lucky ship.  She never let a chase escape, and she was never injured by a hostile shot.  With seven voyages under four captains taking fifteen prizes, she was one of the most successful privateers of the War of 1812.  Her record was never equaled.

This is just a small piece of Freeport history but certainly one of the more significant, especially as it is the 200-year anniversary of the War of 1812.  If you would like to learn more aobut Freeport during your visit, just ask.  A great place to visit to learn more is Freeport Historical Society, located right on Main Street.  Throughout Freeport there is also wonderful signage, “Heritage Trails,” offering glimpses into the people and places of Freeport’s past.  Take some time to check it out and take a piece of history home with you.

Guests continuously ask where they can find the best lobster.  The good news; some of the best lobster shacks can be found in and around the Freeport area.

Depending upon what people are looking for, there are a number of places we recommend.  While lobster can certainly be found in the finer dining establishments, lobster shacks are what many are looking for when thinking about lobster.  A favorite, Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster, can be found at the South Freeport docks, less than ten minutes from James Place Inn.  This lobster shack sits right on the water and the lobster doesn’t get any fresher.  Depending upon how hard you want to work for your food, you’ll find a full lobster dinner, complete with corn-on-the-cob, or great lobster rolls.  The lobster rolls are delicious and what I call “lazy man lobster;” all the benefits without all of the work.  The fried clams here are also some of the best around.  For you mussel fans, these are delicious as well, as is the clam chowder.  You really can’t go wrong here.  The Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster is also “BYOB,” making it a bit different and a fun dining spot on a warm summer’s night.

For folks heading north from Freeport, the reportedly most famous lobster shack in the state is just about 35-40 minutes away and well worth the journey.  Red’s Eats boasts a lobster roll containing one full pound of lobster meat, claws and all!  Put a little melted butter on the top and you have a real treat.  The wait here can be long however it is well worth it.  The town of Wiscasset, home of Red’s Eats, is delightful to browse through.  It sits along the Sheepscot River and provides great views and some wonderful architecture.  You won’t be disappointed with a visit to this gem in Maine.

A short trip south of Freeport to Cape Elizabeth provides two pleasure in one: Two Lights Lighthouse and State Park and The Lobster Shack at Two Lights.  The lighthouse is available for viewing at the end of Two Lights Road, conveniently located by the lobster shack!  (The lighthouse is not open to the public).  The view is wonderful, the food great, and the Atlantic ocean hits against the rocks, providing a great, and ever-changing, backdrop while you dine. 

Some like to try as many different places as possible, looking for the ultimate lobster roll, fried clams, clam chowder, or even lobster chowder.  For those that are not seafood eaters (and there are plenty of you as well), all of these places offer non-seafood alternatives.  If you are a “divided household,” one seafood eater, one not, there is something for everyone.  And one of the best rewards of these lobster shacks are the views of our beautiful Maine coast.  You’ll be glad you stopped!

Planning your summer vacation often includes a visit to the beach.  Maine can boast to having some of the best beaches anywhere.  Miles of soft, sandy beaches, often stretching for miles.  Tides that make the beaches interesting and fun in that there is great exploring to be done during low tide, where many small islands suddenly become accessible to walk out to, tidepools are visible to explore, horseshoe crabs can be found.

Although it is only April, our family has already visited the beach twice this year, taking advantage of these warm days.  One of our favorite beaches is Popham Beach, part of Popham Beach State Park.  There you will find tidepools, miles of soft sandy beaches, dunes, and plenty of space to stretch out and take in the beautiful vista.  Truly one of the most beautiful beaches you will find anywhere and just about 35-minutes from James Place Inn in Freeport.  We love to pack a picnic lunch, some beach toys and make a day of it.  Clean restrooms and changing areas make the park very user-friendly.  You can also visit Fort Popham while you are there, taking in a bit of local history.

Heading south of Freeport will offer even more beach options.  Scarborough Beach is another gem of a state park.  Beautiful soft beaches, perfect for a walk.  Great views of the Maine shoreline, looking over onto Prout’s Neck and Cape Elizabeth.  A great way to spend an afternoon.

Another favorite beach of ours is Kettle Cove, located near Crescent Beach on Cape Elizabeth.  Kettle Cove is small and very much a local’s hangout.  You will see a lot of divers here, quite a few new to the sport and getting instruction.  This beach is a great place for kids as it is small enough for them to roam safely yet there are a lot of rocks for climbing and tidalpools to investigate.  You can also visit lighthouses while here in Cape Elizabeth and hit a great lobster shack, Two Lights, while you are at it.  Top it off with some ice cream and you have a fun and full day!  (One of the great treats of both of these beaches is the great ice cream shop located just outside of the entrance to the parks.  It is surely one of our favorite stops after a fun day in the sun)!

Higgins Beach is another favorite among the locals.  Located just south of Portland, Higgins Beach is in a quiet area.  A bit smaller but still a delightful beach, soft and sandy.

Looking for a bit more action?  Old Orchard Beach is the place for you.  The community of Old Orchard Beach has plenty to do in-seaon.  There are shops, restaurants, carnival games and rides, and a boardwalk to explore.  Miles of soft, white sands are at Old Orchard Beach and the water has a sandbar that seems to go on forever.  The one thing you will have to contend with at Old Orchard Beach are the crowds.  It is a favorite for those looking for a lot of activity instead of the peace and quiet.  Driving and parking can be a challenge.  It is part beach, part people watching, part amusement park.

All of these beaches are within 30-45 minutes of Freeport, making them ideal for a day-long visit.  Those in Portland make for an opportunity to visit lighthouses as well.  These beaches really are a treasure and one to be enjoyed on your visit.  So many opportunities and pleasures await you when you get to Maine.  We’ll look forward to seeing you soon.  And remember to call and we’ll be glad to help with planning.

Spring has arrived in Freeport, and at James Place Inn we are busy making preparations for all of you planning to come see us this summer and fall.  Now that the weather has turned to warmer days, we are busy wrapping up our indoor projects so that we can start the outdoor beautification.  Much painting has been done to the inn, giving it its yearly sprucing up.  Soon the heavy comforters will come off the beds in favor of the lighter quilts of summer.

The first trip to the local nurseries is one of my favorite times of year – so many choices!  What to put in the window boxes this year?  Where to move those perennials that need to be cut in half this season?  What herbs to go in the herb garden, used in breakfast every morning?  (Our chives are already enjoying a head start and are doing nicely).   We will make numerous trips to our favorite local nursery before the outdoor transformation is complete.   As an added bonus, there are often many hummingbirds buzzing the hanging baskets.  What fun!

We have also been busy testing some new recipes.  We have many frequent visitors, so we are always looking to add new recipes to our existing favorites.  Robin has added a wonderful new bread to his collection.  It is a nice sourdough wheat, perfect for toasting (and a little butter)!  Homemade biscuits with homemade jams, new frittata combinations, fresh-made yogurt.  No worries to our regular guests who have favorites they come back for time and again – they are still being made!  We just like to be sure we always have something new and enticing to offer.

As you will see when you arrive, a lot of care and attention goes into anticipating your arrival.  This is your hard-earned vacation and all in the area work hard to make it special and memorable for you.  Need help planning?  Our sample itineraries will help give you some ideas and get you started.  Or give us a call – we are here to help answer any questions and help you make the most of your visit.  We look forward to seeing you soon!

There is always something happening in and around Freeport and this year proves to be no exception.  With LL Bean turning 100 years old this year, there will be plenty offered to do.  There are events planned for all of the LL Bean stores however, most of them are taking place right here in Freeport.  There is something for the whole family to enjoy, from biking to camping to kayaking.

New to the Outdoor Discovery School at LL Bean this year is Stand-up Paddleboarding.  Personally, I need to work on my balance a bit before giving this one a try however, there are a lot of people enjoying this new sport. 

While planning your vacation, or just a long weekend away, consider trying something new.  Paddle the coast, cast a fly, archery, or try sporting clays…it is all great fun and an opportunity to try something different.  These outdoor events can be for two hours or two days.  Serious about learning your new sport?  Classes are offered, usually lasting about two days.  When not practicing, take advantage of other events here in Freeport, enjoy a great meal or a casual lobster roll; visit a lighthouse, or stroll our friendly streets and do a little shopping.  There really is so much to see and do, you’ll want to plan at least three days here before moving on.  We know great places to visit and dine.  Let us help you make the most out of your Maine vacation.  We’ll be happy to help you plan and you’ll be happy you asked!

It is that time of year again when the Maine Innkeepers Association sponsors its annual Hospitality for Habitat promotion.  This is the 9th year for the program, which started in 2004, and is designed to raise money for Habitat for Humanity.  All participating properties donate a designated number of rooms at 50% off the regular room rate.  In return, the guests write a check for $35.00 to Habitat for Humanity to give to the innkeepers upon arrival.  Everyone wins in this great program supporting a great cause.  (This promotion runs April 23-May 25 however, each property is able to set their dates of participation so please call the selected property for specific details).

Looking for a little art in your life?  The current exhibit at the Portland Museum of Art features over 70 drawings, prints, pastels and photographs as well as several sculptures, in one of the first comprehensive exhibitions at the museum devoted to the 19th century French master Edgar Degas.  The exhibit is at the museum through May 28th.

To make an evening of it, the museum offers free admission to everyone on Friday evenings after 5:00pm.  The perfect night out – visit the museum and then enjoy a delightful meal at one of the many great places to dine in the area.  The perfect opportunity for a getaway and to do something a bit different.

The often long and cold days of February is the time many of us are thinking about warmer weather and summer vacations.  While it is fun to think about, it can often be a bit challenging to plan a trip to a place you have never been before.  That’s where we come in.  There are so many places to go and so much to see in and around Freeport.  This serves as a perfect outpost to do day-trips to lighthouses, musems, beaches, whale watching, sailing, and so much more! 

There are a number of places to find great information for planning your trip.  Our website offers sample itineraries, just to give an idea of what is available.  The Maine Office of Tourism (www.viitmaine.com) also serves as a great place to get ideas and build your itinerary.  We also enjoy chatting with our guests about your interests and helping suggest things to do and where to go.  So whether you are a planner and have two weeks or enjoy “winging it” and seeing where the journey takes you, we can help you make the most of your hard-earned vacation time.  It is always time to be planning that next great vacation!

Many of our guests were aware that we were closing for a few weeks of vacation and enjoying a climb on Kilimanjaro and a safari (climb for Robin, safari for all of us).  We are safely back in Freeport, having had a great time away (our first in five years)!  Robin did great on his climb, despite unusually cold temperatures and blinding sand storms.  Kilimanjaro is 19,340 feet to the summit and Robin made it to 17,500 feet before the sand took over and caused temporary loss of site, forcing him to come down.  He had an amazing experience and we are proud of his accomplishment.  The safari was unbelievable!  We saw the migration and as Elyse says “all of the animals possible.”  We will gladly share pictures and stories with anyone interested.  It was truly a trip of a lifetime.

Oddly, it isn’t cold outside.  We are experiencing one of the warmest winters on record.  Today is no exception at 45 degrees and plenty of sunshine.  While the winter sports fans are sad due to the lack of snow, the weather reminds some that spring is not far away.  Time to start planning your Maine vacation.  Perhaps the Maine Flower Show will get you started in thinking spring and be your first visit to Maine for 2012.  This is March 7-11 and is one of my favorite events of the spring season.  It is easy to while away a day here and makes a perfect start to a girlfriend weekend.  Spend time shopping in Freeport, fine dining…and think of spring.