Built in 1886, the extraordinary stone castle Norumbega has been a distinguished Camden landmark for over 122 years.  The history behind the name Norumbega is in keeping with the building itself.  In the 16th century Norumbega was allegedly a magnificent city on the banks of the Penobscot River.  European explorers returned to Europe telling tales of visiting this city where the Indians were adorned with furs, silver and gold.

The dreams of "Norumbega" revitalized in 1886 when Joseph Stearns built has lavish new mansion and named it Norumbega.  The Stearn family were original settlers to Maine, having immigrated from Britain. In the later 1860s, Joseph invented the duplex telegraphy system, patenting it in the U.S. and throughout Europe, giving him his first fortune. While traveling through Europe, he became fancinated with the many castles and would visit as many as he could, making sketches and notes. On his return to Maine, Joseph hired the famous New York architect, Arthur Bates Jennings to design the now famous Queen Anne style home. He had long considered Camden to be the most beautiful place he had ever seen and decided to locate his castle overlooking the bay. Taking his favorite features from each castle, Jennings incorporated them into the design for Norumbega.  Joseph and his second wife, Amanda Edmonds Stearns with their two sons, lived in Norumbega until his death on July 4, 1895.

Norumbega has had several subsequent owners including a cousin to Joseph, E. Kent Hubbard and his cousin E. Pittman. Finally the castle was sold to former Assistant Secretary of State Hodding Carter III.  In 1984 Norumbega was converted into a "Bed & Breakfast". 

Today Norumbega stands majestic, proudly keeping watch over the bay. Innkeeper and general manager Jas Barbe', with his staff, welcome you to one of America's only castle Bed and Breakfast escapes.

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