Nestled on the northeastern edge of Mount Desert Island, Hulls Cove might easily be missed by the hurried traveler making their way to Bar Harbor or the grandeur of Acadia National Park. Yet, for those who pause and stroll its tree-lined streets or venture down to its tranquil shore, Hulls Cove reveals layers of history and character that enrich the very spirit of Bar Harbor.
The Origins of Hulls Cove
Long before Hulls Cove became a beloved neighborhood, its forested lands and sheltered waters were home to the native Wabanaki people, who fished the coves and established seasonal camps along the shore. European settlers later dubbed the area “Hulls Cove” after John Hull, a gristmill operator and early settler whose presence in the late 18th century marked the cove’s beginnings under its present name.
John Hull recognized something remarkable about this spot—a naturally protected inlet perfect for small vessels and a generous landscape ideal for farming and milling. His gristmill, built near today’s Eden Street (Route 3), became an anchor point for Hulls Cove, attracting more settlers and laying the foundation for a close-knit village that would grow alongside the natural rhythms of Frenchman Bay.
From Quiet Cove to Community Hub
Throughout the 1800s, Hulls Cove flourished as a small but thriving community. Its proximity to the water ensured fishing, boatbuilding, and trade were integral to daily life. Over time, new streets—such as Crooked Road and Bay View Drive—emerged, leading to homes, shops, and community gathering spots.
The Methodist Church at Hulls Cove, built in the late 19th century, stands as one of the neighborhood’s earliest and most enduring landmarks. Nestled serenely on Crooked Road, this iconic white-steepled church has witnessed weddings, funerals, and countless Sunday meetings—serving as a steadfast gathering place through centuries of change.
One of the most significant transformations came with the rise of Bar Harbor as a summer playground for vacationers flocking to Mount Desert Island. Hulls Cove’s peaceful ambiance and scenic views made it a desirable haven for seasonal cottages, leading to a gentle evolution from working village to a blend of year-round residents and summer guests.
Landmarks and Layers of Legacy
Hulls Cove is peppered with both humble and historic sites that speak to its heritage:
- The Hulls Cove General Store: Once the social center of the cove, this neighborhood institution still operates today, welcoming locals and visitors alike for snacks, conversation, and the occasional bit of island lore.
- Hulls Cove School: This now-closed one-room schoolhouse once buzzed with the lively energy of island children, and stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s deep roots.
- The Hulls Cove Reading Room: This unique stone building on Route 3 was originally built as a private club by summer residents in the early 20th century. Its sturdy, rustic architecture recalls the era of grand summer “cottages” and remains a treasured symbol of Hulls Cove’s role in Bar Harbor’s social scene.
- Acadia National Park Visitor Center: Housed in Hulls Cove on Bar Harbor Road, the visitor center serves as the main gateway for travelers into Acadia National Park. With its panoramic views and informative exhibits, it links Hulls Cove’s legacy with the breathtaking natural beauty that draws millions to the island each year.
Neighborhood Evolution: A Timeline
1700s
- The Wabanaki people live and forage along the cove.
- John Hull establishes his mill, giving the cove its modern name.
1800s
- Fishing, farming, and small commerce shape the neighborhood.
- Hulls Cove Methodist Church is built; Crooked Road emerges as a main route.
- Families anchor the neighborhood, with generations maintaining a deep connection to the land and sea.
Early 1900s
- Summer cottages rise along the bay; wealthy out-of-towners bring new architecture and social activity.
- The Reading Room and local inns become fixtures in the community’s identity.
Mid to Late 20th Century
- Parks and institutions, like the Acadia National Park Visitor Center, are constructed, cementing Hulls Cove’s role as a portal to nature.
- Residential development expands along Bay View Drive, and quiet streets fill with the laughter of new families.
Today
- Hulls Cove balances its history with modernity—a blend of historic homes, contemporary residences, and echoes of the past in every stone wall and weathered boathouse.
- Longtime neighbors greet each other at the General Store, while new faces stop for directions or a postcard.
The Spirit of Hulls Cove
What makes Hulls Cove special isn’t just its spectacular views of Frenchman Bay, nor its easy access to the hiking trails of Acadia. It’s the village rhythm—steady, welcoming, and enriched by every generation that’s called Hulls Cove home.
Come autumn, the maples and oaks lining Old Bar Harbor Road blaze in red and gold, and neighbors gather for cider and stories from years gone by. Summer brings walkers and cyclists, and the hum of anticipation as visitors pass through on their way to adventure.
Folks here speak lovingly about the little things: *the peal of the church bell on Sunday mornings; the clatter of lobster traps being hauled on the pier; the foghorn’s low call on a misty dawn*. Hulls Cove, with its gentle pace and enduring landmarks, invites you to linger, listen, and discover a story at every turn.
If you find yourself in Bar Harbor, take a detour down to Hulls Cove. Stroll the storied streets and savor the heritage that weaves generations into the fabric of one remarkable neighborhood. Here, the past is never far away—and the spirit of community is always just a wave or a warm hello away.