Maine, known for its rugged beauty and welcoming atmosphere, has a hidden history of safe havens for Black travelers in the pre-Civil Rights Era. Rock Rest in Kittery, Jewell Inn in York, Franklin’s bed-and-breakfast in Ogunquit, and the Thomas House in Portland were establishments that provided refuge for Black tourists when discrimination was rampant. These places, featured in the Green Book, offered lodging and dining options for people of color who were otherwise turned away from businesses.
Bob Sheppard is currently working on a documentary about Rock Rest, a guest house established by Clayton and Hazel Sinclair in 1946. Rock Rest became a popular destination for Black travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in southern Maine. Similarly, Franklin’s bed-and-breakfast in Ogunquit was a beloved spot for guests who enjoyed her delicious meals and warm hospitality.
The Thomas House in Portland, also known as the Green Lantern Grill, catered to Black sailors, shipyard workers, and soldiers who needed a place to stay. Edie Thomas, the owner, provided meals to Black soldiers who guarded the waterfront and bridges during the war. These establishments played a crucial role in providing a safe and welcoming environment for Black travelers to enjoy the beauty of Maine without facing discrimination.
As interest in preserving these historical sites grows, efforts are being made to ensure that their significance is not forgotten. Lisa Jones, founder of Black Travel Maine, dreams of buying the Hideaway Inn in Ogunquit, once owned by Franklin, to create a cultural hub for Black residents and visitors. These sites, now part of the National Register of Historic Places, serve as a reminder of Maine’s diverse history and the resilience of communities of color in creating their own Vacationland.
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