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 246 Main Street Kingfield, Maine 04947
(207) 265-2000 ~ 888-656-9922 InnKeeper@HerbertGrandHotel.com
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The Herbert Grand Hotel was constructed in 1917-18 by Herbert Wing. Some folks say he built it for his wife while others say he built it as a place to entertain notables while considering running for Governor. Mr. Wing was a lawyer, judge and member of the Maine House of Representatives in the early years of the 20th century. The building was constructed of the finest materials available at that time as was the tradition of the Grand hotels of that era. Many have stood the test of time such as the fumed oak, brass fixtures and terazzo floors. | "Fuming" is a process where wood is placed in an airtight room and fumed with ammonia. The longer the time, the deeper the color. Today, the prohibitive cost of doing this prevents its widespread use. |
The Herbert Grand Hotel boasted a Western Electric telephone system. It is said that at the time, the Herbert was the only hotel north of Boston where a patron could receive a call in the dining room at his table. You can see the original outlets throughout our dining room.
The Herbert Grand Hotel also was one of the first places in Kingfield to be completely electrified from the start, and today the original brass fixtures and outlet covers have been polished once more to their original luster.
Prior to 1982, the hotel's previous owners simply walked out one blustery winter day and were never seen or heard from again. The Herbert Grand Hotel was abandoned and in bankruptcy court when new owners came to the hotel's rescue. It had suffered the cold badly, with no fewer than 237 burst water pipes. Paint was peeling, and plaster was falling. Following a $1 million-plus restoration, the Herbert was better than ever, with a new roof, sprinklers, and fire alarm systems. In its pre-refurbishment days, the Herbert had just six bathrooms; today all 27 rooms have baths (25 have Jacuzzis). The Herbert had been restored to its past glory complete with a dining room featuring exciting, upscale New England cuisine and an impressive selection of wines. The restaurant had received several awards, including a four-star rating from the Boston Globe.
Sometime in the past several years, the hotel once again suffered from a decline in management. The restaurant was closed and the signs of neglect began to show. In 2001 the Herbert Grand Hotel was purchased by Marcie Herrick. Marcie's 18 years of experience in the hospitality business would be called on to make the necessary improvements again to bring the Herbert back to its days of splendor and fame. Plans are underway to refurbish the many rooms, open a first class restaurant and bring back local activities such as piano recitals and art shows.
Although there have been changes over the past 83 years, the Herbert has not lost the feel and appearance of Grand Hotel, 1918.
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