Tom and Kate Chappell, founders of the iconic Tom’s of Maine, have sold their historic home in Kennebunk, a 7-bedroom Federal-style Colonial originally built in 1799 by architect and housewright Thomas Eaton for Kennebunk native Nathaniel Frost. This remarkable property is more than a home—it’s a private oasis, surrounded by lush organic gardens filled with apple trees, herbs, and vegetables. A long circular drive leads to a classic 3-bay barn, completing the timeless charm of this rare 1.6-acre estate in the heart of Main Street, Kennebunk.
Spanning 7,500 square feet, the home’s 20 rooms include seven bedrooms, eight wood-burning fireplaces, and even an accessory apartment perfect for guests or multi-generational living. The Chappells lived here for over 40 years, leaving an indelible mark with their passion for sustainability and an “all-natural” ethos that extended beyond their business to their home itself.
“This estate is more than just a home,” said co-listing agent Andi Robinson. “It’s a reflection of the Chappell family’s legacy of creativity, sustainability, and care for the community.”
A Home Rooted in Legacy and Innovation
The story of 99 Main Street is deeply intertwined with both Kennebunk’s history and the Chappells’ remarkable journey as artists, authors, philanthropists, and trailblazing entrepreneurs. Their innovative business, Tom’s of Maine, revolutionized the natural products industry with its commitment to environmentally-conscious practices.
That same dedication is evident throughout the property. Long before sustainable design became a trend, the Chappells equipped their home with solar panels, geothermal heating, and energy-efficient systems. The family proudly described their home as “all-natural,” a fitting nod to both their personal values and their professional legacy.
“This property is a true piece of Kennebunk’s history and a testament to the Chappells’ vision for living in harmony with the environment,” added co-listing agent Elaine Prendergast.
A Carefully Crafted Sale
Our approach to marketing this property was as distinctive as the home itself. Leveraging our global reach and local expertise, our team ensured the listing received the attention it deserved.
Representing a home with such a unique combination of history, versatility, and sustainability required a tailored approach. Listing agents Andi Robinson and Elaine Prendergast ensured every aspect of the process honored the property’s significance and the Chappells’ legacy. Andi and Elaine approached the marketing of this unique property with precision and care, guided by their mission statement: “We are dedicated to delivering an elevated and personalized premium experience to our clients. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for exceeding standards, we aim to set a new benchmark for service in the industry.”
Through weekly updates and hands-on guidance, the team ensured the Chappells felt supported every step of the way. Marketing efforts highlighted the home’s versatility as a single-family residence, multi-generational home, or even a commercial property.
“This sale required not only dedication but a clear understanding of the property’s value and the type of buyer we were seeking,” said Andi. “Strategic advertising and personalized service were key to showcasing the home to the right audience.”
The property drew global attention through advertisements in prominent magazines, social media promotion, and features in Robb Report, Mansion Global, and MaineBiz, all celebrating its historic significance, sustainable features, and timeless design.
A New Chapter for a Beloved Home
The sale of 99 Main Street for $1.7 million marks the beginning of a new chapter for this cherished Kennebunk home. It also underscores the strength of Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty’s approach—combining local expertise with global reach to honor the story of each property.
