Hickory Lodge

Hickory Lodge was started in 1895 by Frank & Mary Fitzsimmons, who began taking in borders to supplement their income from running the Rockport General Store. About 1900, the boarding house became known as Hickory Lodge, and in 1909 a wing was added on the west side bringing the number of rooms available for rent to 22. Although set back from the river, it was situated on a gentle hill so that guests could sit on the wide veranda in rocking chairs and enjoy the river view. Mary’s cooking was sought after by both overnight and casual guests and with the warm hospitality they offered, it became the epitome of hospitality in the village. Many guests returned year after year, including Miss Anne Thaxter Eaton. In 1943, the Fitzsimmons finally sold the business and retired. The lodge burned to the ground in the winter of 1951, apparently after being broken into by a pair of men during the night. It was never rebuilt.

Research by Brian Phillips.