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You are invited to experience life on an island off the coast of Maine, an island without cars. Embrace the comfort and charm of another era in a historically significant restored brick home in a century-old fort listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Diamond Cove, a 193 acre residential and vacation community on Great Diamond Island, in Casco Bay, two miles by ferry from Portland, is a diamond in the rough.
The natural beauty of the island is, in itself, enough to recommend Diamond Cove for your vacation escape. Our beaches abound with tidal pools and sea glass, even shards of crockery from the fort's heyday. Exploring miles of walking trails through the island's old growth forest, you may encounter our resident moose, or a wandering family of deer. And hiking along the water's edge, you'll sight herons and osprey, perhaps a few seals. Migrating birds stop over at the freshwater ice pond, lobstermen haul their traps in the cove, and the dock is a fine spot for fishing. Yet, almost incongruously, at the center of this splendid retreat, rise stately brick residences.
The fort's weathered brick buildings - officers' row, the barracks, even the bakery and the jail - have been carefully restored as private homes. Diamond Cove provides such amenities as a gourmet restaurant, tennis courts, a heated outdoor pool, a general store, a marina, even the original gymnasium and bowling alley, all within walking distance. We also have five secluded beaches, a moon garden, and a playground. With no private automobiles, enjoy the peace and magic of island living, combined with the beauty of a bygone era.
The rich history and grand architecture are fascinating components of the island. Diamond Cove was built at the turn of the last century as a military stronghold, then called Fort McKinley. It served as coastal headquarters for the defense of Portland Harbor during the Spanish-American War. More than 1,000 soldiers lived in handsome brick barracks and Queen Anne-style officers' quarters surrounding the spacious parade ground. Fort McKinley was retired from active service in 1945, however, and stood vacant for over 40 years. Today, Diamond Cove has been restored to its former grand elegance. What must once have been a coveted assignment for a soldier is now a unique, family-oriented residential community.
If you would like to share the experience of living for a time at Diamond Cove, please call for information about our three bedroom townhouse. |
