The Inn

Old photo of Granite Inn exterior

History of the Granite Inn

546 Main Street, located in the national historic district of Rockland, Maine, began in 1833 as a Federal Colonial house built of gray granite quarried nearby in St. George. Local craftsmen fashioned the beautiful structure that still stands today. The house was built for Capt. Robert Perry, a “well-known mariner.” Over the years the house was both the residence and office for at least two physicians and their families.

In 1906, the Elks Club purchased the building for their clubhouse, adding the large wooden wing to the rear. The building was heavily damaged by fire in the 1940’s. The terrazzo floors and woodwork date from the building's restoration.

In 1984, Stephanie and John Clapp, through renovation and restoration, converted the property into the lovely, comfortable Old Granite Inn. Stephanie, a professional baker, ran a bakery out of the small wing to the south.

In 1997, Ragan and John Cary of St. George, owned and ran the Old Granite Inn, continuing the tradition of a fine Bed & Breakfast.

In 2006, Joan and Edwin Hantz of Rochester, NY, took over from the Caries. Joan, a graphic designer, and Edwin, a copy writer/editor and avid cook/gardener, along with their daughter, Giuliana, and English Springer, Zack, called the Granite Inn their home. Since then, Giuliana has grown up and moved on and Zack, sadly, died in June of 2011.

"We thank Stephanie for the great professional range in the kitchen, the Caries for their meticulous attention to guest comfort, and to all the previous owners for their loving care of the building and surrounding flower garden." Ed Hantz, innkeeper

In 2026, Greg and Kelly English of Richmond, Virginia, became the new owners of the Inn, purchasing it from Joan and Edwin Hantz. Inspired by the property's beautiful location, fascinating history, and the legacy of hospitality established by the Hantz family and other innkeepers before them, they relocated to Rockland to carry that tradition forward—creating shared experiences through curated hospitality.

The Inn Today

Today, the Inn is furnished with an artful counterpoint of genuine antiques and modern pieces. Starting with the extensively renovated dining room and kitchen, the innkeepers strive for elegant simplicity combined with comfort.

The porch extends the entire width of the building. Whether a sunny perch from which to greet the day or a place for relaxing tea and conversation in the late afternoon, the porch is the first sign, as one approaches the Inn, of the welcoming atmosphere within.

Beyond the threshold, the public rooms include the Living Room with its fireplace, extensive woodwork, terrazzo floors, comfortable furniture, and views of Rockland Harbor. The bright and airy dining room, accommodating up to 30 people for special occasions, offers a display area for local art and photography.

There are eight guest rooms with either king or queen beds and the highest-quality bedding. Two rooms on the 2nd floor have a view of Rockland Harbor with its spectacular sunrises. Rooms 1-2 and 8-9 constitute suites. With a king bed in one room and a sitting room with a couch and table and one twin bed in the other, the 1-2 suite can accommodate up to three people. The 8-9 suite has a king bed, sitting room with a couch and table and can accommodate two guests.

High-speed wireless Internet is available throughout the Inn for your use of email, text, and streaming services.

All guest rooms are climate-controlled with individual heat pumps, providing both air conditioning and heat for year-round comfort.

Commitment to the Environment

In 2008, the Inn received Environmental Leader certification from the State of Maine. This is in recognition of the Inn's commitment to minimizing its environmental impact through reduced water usage, conserving energy, recycling and reusing materials, and using environment-friendly detergents and cleaning products. These efforts are being made without compromising the Inn's highest-quality accommodations.

The Granite Inn Policies

View a complete listing of The Granite Inn policies here.