History of the Hartstone Inn

Originally built in 1835, the building was the home of Captain Joseph C. Stetson, one of Camden’s most successful 19th-century shipbuilders. During this time, Camden was a bustling hub of maritime trade. Captain Stetson launched over 70 vessels from the local harbor and is even rumored to have invented the “coffee break” to keep his workers focused (and away from rum!).

As Camden grew, so did its reputation for fine homes and a close-knit community. Though a massive fire destroyed much of the downtown in 1892, this house—now the Hartstone Inn—survived, becoming one of the town’s cherished historical landmarks.

In the early 1900s, the home became the residence and medical office of Dr. Willis Hart and his wife, Mary. (We even have photos of Mary & Dr. Hart in our lobby!) The Hart family remained here for several decades, and their name lives on in the inn’s current identity.

The home was transformed into a bed-and-breakfast in the 1980s, and in 1998, Chef Michael Salmon and Mary Jo Brink elevated the Hartstone into a culinary destination, expanding the property and refining its charm.

Today, the Hartstone Inn continues to honor its past while embracing the best of modern comfort. Under the ownership of Oneil Khosa and the Enthusiast Hotel Collection, the inn thrives with a renewed energy and a dedication to excellence in every detail.

Classic Dining at the Hartstone Inn

We’re proud to offer guests a truly special culinary experience at the Hartstone Inn Restaurant, led by Camden’s own “Kilted Chef” Tom White. Chef Tom blends timeless classics with elevated technique, crafting seasonal menus that celebrate the best of Maine’s bounty.

Our Wine Steward Stevie curates exceptional pairings for every dish, drawing from a thoughtful collection of wines from around the world.

Together with General Manager Meghan Werby and Operations Manager Kaya Holmes, our team works tirelessly to create an atmosphere of welcoming elegance, from beautifully redesigned spaces to attentive, heartfelt service.

Thank you for being our guest!

The Hartstone Inn is more than a place to stay—it’s a place where history lives, hospitality thrives, and every guest becomes part of the story. We’re honored to have you with us and hope your time in Camden is nothing short of unforgettable.

Welcome to the Hartstone family!"