Blaine House
The Blaine House belongs to the people of Maine, and so
its history is your story, too. Maine's most famous home
is also a working part of Maine State government, a museum
of historic events, and a very active home for the Governor
of Maine and his family. Built by Captain James Hall in 1833,
the Blaine House has been home to 19 First Families since
1920. Each has left a unique mark on this historic residence.
The couple who made this house famous began their lives
together in 1850. Harriet Stanwood and James G. Blaine met
as young teachers in Kentucky. 
They married at the half-way
mark of the 19th century and returned to Mrs. Blaine's hometown
of Augusta four years later. The young James Blaine became
part-owner and editor of the Kennebec Journal. In 1858, tired
of reporting from the sidelines, Blaine launched a brilliant
political career that would take him just short of the White
House. In four short years, Blaine moved from the Maine House
of Representatives to the U.S. House of Representatives.
That same year the Blaine family bought the home that would become the Blaine House. Here, Mr. Blaine entertained and took refuge from the rigors of politics and campaigning. Also while living here, Blaine raised his family, ran for Congress, served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, and served as a U.S. Senator. He narrowly lost a bid for the presidency and served as Secretary of State for two Presidents. As you can see, this house has been at the center of Maine and American politics for almost 150 years. It is steeped in the history that has made us who we are. This wonderful old house has learned well how to open wide the door of Maine hospitality and at the same time offer peace and quiet to its occupants. We hope that the memories of your visit will be as special as those who have lived and visited here for the past century-and-a-half.