The Star of Hope Lodge: An Extraordinary Piece of Maine’s History

The Star of Hope Lodge, an extraordinary piece of Maine's architectural, artistic, and cultural history, offers a rare opportunity to become the next steward of a landmark property. Built in 1884 during the height of Vinalhaven's granite industry, this approximately 7,000-square-foot, 12-room Second Empire Victorian stands in the heart of the island village, with water views toward Vinalhaven Harbor from the front and across Carver's Pond from the back. Its mansard roof, central tower, and widow's walk recall an era when Vinalhaven granite and craftsmanship contributed to some of America's most celebrated landmarks. The Lodge's story extends beyond its architecture. For more than 40 years, renowned Pop artist Robert Indiana made the Star of Hope his home, studio, and museum--a place where he lived, worked, and created. This gives the property a direct, documented connection to a major American artist and exceptional cultural provenance. With commercial and residential possibilities, the Lodge offers its next owner the chance to reimagine its future while respecting its remarkable past. A significant 2020-2022 stabilization project addressed structural needs, water and pest intrusion, and three of the building's four exterior walls. Documentation of completed and recommended future work is available. Lighting and architectural details have been preserved. The Star of Hope Foundation, which supports artists and cultural initiatives in Maine and on Vinalhaven, is selling the property. Few properties combine architecture, history, art, and place in quite this way. Whether considered for residential or commercial use, or as a legacy or institutional asset, the Star of Hope offers something increasingly rare: the chance to own an important piece of Maine and American art history, preserve it, and give this landmark new life and purpose.