Our Place Apart
Some places don’t just tell a story—they live it. You’ll hear it in the creak of two-foot- wide floorboards and see it in the square, blacksmith-cut nails. You’ll feel it in the stair handrail, worn smooth by centuries of passing guests, and in the quiet calm drifting in from the bay just under a mile away. There may be countless inns on Cape Cod, but this one is the real McCoy—authentic, timeless, and unmistakably genuine.
The History of the Inn
The Inn at Yarmouth Port is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1843 by Captain James Bacon Crocker (1804–1883), this remarkable Cape Cod property stands as a living example of Greek Revival architecture and the rich maritime heritage of the region. Captain Crocker, a prominent figure in the East Indies and China trade, commanded the Eben Preble, widely regarded as one of the finest East Indiamen sailing out of Boston. Retiring before the age of 40, he built this stately home for his family in the heart of Yarmouth Port.
Today, century-old wide plank pine floors and beautifully preserved moldings reflect the gentility and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Beyond his life at sea, Captain Crocker was also a successful local businessman, operating a general store at the corner of Route 6A and Willow Street. That same location would later become home to the original Christmas Tree Shops, a beloved New England retail institution. In later years, Captain Crocker also presided over a courthouse that once occupied the first floor of the home, adding yet another layer to its storied past.
The inn remains a distinguished example of Greek Revival design and continues to reveal new pieces of its history. During recent renovations, innkeepers uncovered massive wooden beams believed to have originated from the Captain’s ships, along with hand-forged nails, wooden spikes, and intriguing etched markings. These discoveries offer a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship and stories embedded within the home—histories that are still unfolding today.
From Home To Town Jail To Boutique Inn
Innkeeping: The Adventure of a Lifetime
Deborah and Renée never set out to become innkeepers—it wasn’t a long-held dream, but rather a path that unfolded from a shared desire to grow and embrace something new. From concept to reality, everything aligned in just eight months, leading them to their roles at The Inn at Yarmouth Port. Ask them about their story during your stay—it’s as serendipitous as it is inspiring.