Canterbury Castle

Canterbury Castle is a three-story residence in Portland built with basalt stone from a local quarry and topped by a distinctive copper turret. The interior spaces include a garage, kitchen with breakfast area, living room, dining room, and music room, with the master bedroom opening onto a deck.

Architect Jeter O. Frye designed the house between 1929 and 1931, blending English castle exterior features with Art Deco interior elements. The building received recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 and later received designation as a Portland Historic Landmark.

The residence became a neighborhood curiosity after its completion, drawing the attention of locals and visitors intrigued by its castle-like features. This distinctive appearance made it stand out in a residential area accustomed to more conventional homes.

Entry to the property passes over a wooden drawbridge that spans a water-filled moat around the structure, creating an distinctive arrival experience. Comfortable shoes and extra time are helpful for exploring the unusual architectural details both outside and on the interior.

The property gained attention as a tourist attraction shortly after completion, with visitors paying to see the distinctive moat and drawbridge features. This early popularity demonstrated how bold architectural choices could draw public interest during the Depression era.