Hospitality in Northern Maine has always been about more than simply providing a place to sleep. It is about welcoming travellers, supporting the local community, and creating memorable experiences for everyone who visits the region. The story of the Presque Isle Hotel reflects this spirit perfectly.
Over the decades, this property has transformed from a classic roadside motor inn into a modern hotel serving visitors from across the country. From its beginnings as the Swamp Fox Motor Inn to its current identity as the Presque Isle Hotel, the building has witnessed generations of travellers, countless community events, and many exciting changes.
Today, the hotel stands as a renewed destination that blends history, comfort, and modern hospitality
Challenges Along the Way
Like many long-standing hospitality businesses, the property experienced challenges as the travel and tourism industry evolved. Changes in ownership, economic pressures, and the need for ongoing maintenance created obstacles over time.
Eventually, operations slowed, and the property faced periods of uncertainty. While these challenges were difficult for the business and the community, they also created an opportunity for something new to emerge.
For many local residents, the property still held deep sentimental value and historical significance. The hope remained that the building would one day return to its former vitality.
A Fresh Start: The Birth of Presque Isle Hotel
That new beginning arrived with the revitalisation of the property as the Presque Isle Hotel.
The transition represents a fresh vision focused on modern hospitality, guest comfort, and renewed community connection. With updated management and a commitment to improving the guest experience, the hotel is entering an exciting new chapter.
Recent improvements focus on enhancing both comfort and functionality, including:
-
Renovated and refreshed guest rooms
-
Updated bedding and furnishings
-
Improved facilities and guest amenities
-
Enhanced customer service and hospitality standards
The goal is to provide visitors with a comfortable, reliable, and welcoming place to stay while maintaining the spirit and history that make the property special.
in the heart of Presque Isle, Maine.
1972–73 — The Swamp Fox Motor Inn Opens
Construction began in the summer of 1972 under owner Carroll Hardy of Brewer. By June 1973, the Swamp Fox Motor Inn officially opened its doors.
Built at a cost nearing $1 million — an impressive investment at the time — the property featured over 70 guest rooms and full-service amenities rarely seen in Aroostook County.
- Full-service restaurant
- Cock & Feather Lounge
- Meeting rooms and banquet facilities
- Swimming pool and saunas
- Fitness area
- On-site beauty salon
The Coach & Eight Restaurant became known for its Saturday night buffet and daily luncheon specials, while live bands such as Rock Maple, Night Life, and Hokum brought energy to the lounge. The Swamp Fox quickly earned recognition as one of Maine’s most modern hospitality destinations.
1978 — Keddy’s Motor Inn
In March 1978, the property was purchased by Canadian entrepreneur Donald Keddy and renamed Keddy’s Motor Inn.
During this era, the lounge was rebranded as The Connection, becoming a cornerstone of Presque Isle nightlife throughout the 1980s.
1986 — Major Expansion
A significant $1.5 million expansion in 1986 elevated the property into a regional convention destination.
- Additional guest rooms
- Expanded conference and banquet facilities
- Additional kitchen space
- New solarium restaurant
The hotel continued to grow in both size and reputation, hosting weddings, conventions, and community events.
1998–2000 — Transition Period
After nearly two decades as Keddy’s, the hotel entered receivership in November 1998 and briefly operated as the County View Hotel.
2000–Present — Presque Isle Inn & Convention Center
In 2000, Kevin B. Simmons of KBS Enterprises purchased the property and began extensive renovations. Under his leadership, the hotel became Aroostook County’s largest full-service hotel and convention center.
- Extended-stay suites added
- 6,000 sq ft fitness center
- Gram Russo’s Italian Restaurant (named for Marjorie Russo)
“The Presque Isle Inn is truly a city landmark, a ‘County Gem.’ All our upgrades are done to protect the historic nature of the facility.”
— Kevin B. Simmons
Challenges Along the Way
Like many long-standing hospitality businesses, the property experienced challenges as the travel and tourism industry evolved. Changes in ownership, economic pressures, and the need for ongoing maintenance created obstacles over time.
Eventually, operations slowed, and the property faced periods of uncertainty. While these challenges were difficult for the business and the community, they also created an opportunity for something new to emerge.
For many local residents, the property still held deep sentimental value and historical significance. The hope remained that the building would one day return to its former vitality.
A Fresh Start: The Birth of Presque Isle Hotel
That new beginning arrived with the revitalisation of the property as the Presque Isle Hotel.
The transition represents a fresh vision focused on modern hospitality, guest comfort, and renewed community connection. With updated management and a commitment to improving the guest experience, the hotel is entering an exciting new chapter.
Recent improvements focus on enhancing both comfort and functionality, including:
-
Renovated and refreshed guest rooms
-
Updated bedding and furnishings
-
Improved facilities and guest amenities
-
Enhanced customer service and hospitality standards
The goal is to provide visitors with a comfortable, reliable, and welcoming place to stay while maintaining the spirit and history that make the property special.