Straw House

The Straw House is a residential building in Guilford, Maine, distinguished by a three-story octagonal tower topped with a conical slate roof. The structure showcases decoratively cut wood shingles and half-timbered details that create a visually distinctive exterior design.

David Straw acquired the property in 1832 and undertook major renovations during the 1880s that shaped the building's current form. He and his son later established one of Maine's early textile mills, connecting the family to the region's industrial development.

The interior walls feature hand-painted decorations by Moses Eaton, a traveling artist of the 1800s, whose work reflects the craftsmanship that itinerant decorators brought to homes of that era. His stenciled patterns and freehand designs remain visible as examples of folk art practices common in rural New England.

The building is located in rural Maine and can be viewed from the exterior as it appears on local historical records. Visitors should note that access may vary depending on current ownership status and restoration work.

The house was once operated as the Trebor Mansion Inn, a guest accommodation that temporarily repurposed the historic structure for commercial use. This dual role reflects how the building adapted to serve different needs across generations.

Location: Maine

Architectural style: Queen Anne style architecture

GPS coordinates: 45.17028,-69.38528

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:25