Changing of the Guard in Olde Westport

BY STEVEN CHAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCKI SCHOTZ

The Paquachuck Inn has an illuminating history and is available for someone interested in carrying on its prominence in connecting the past, present, and future.

The word Paquachuck is translated to quahog and is steeped in Native American culture. Historical documents show that members of the Wampanoag tribe settled along the fertile banks and sparkling rivers of Westport due to suppression by colonists in Dartmouth. The displaced people made their way to Horseneck—a State Reservation and incredible beach; Coaksett, “Land on the other side of the little land,” now referred to as Acoaxet, and Noquochoke, “Land at the fork of the river.”

Finding a new home with an abundance of food, water, shelter, and the natural beauty of the surrounding area, the new inhabitants must have been quite satisfied—as is today’s homeowners.

While much has changed, what has not, is the demand for the limited inventory of historically significant homes and property in a town that draws visitors and buyers worldwide.

The building, found at the very end of Main Road on Westport Point, is tied to the whaling industry, responsible for creating commerce and vast wealth for its residents, ship owners, and others who sought adventure on the high seas.

Originally constructed in 1820, the multi-story building served as a sail loft on the second floor and chandler on the ground level. Close to the water, both sailors and vendors found added convenience to conduct trade; making the location a valuable investment.

Today, the “Point” is home to year-round and summer residents. It is a quiet area of well-to-do citizens, professional artists, and a local fishing fleet. At the tip of Westport, activity abounds with pleasure and commercial watercraft of all descriptions. Within the snug harbor and inlets, small piers dot the area and allow easy access for launching kayaks, canoes, and a local favorite—Beetle Cats.

As the whaling industry waned, so did the need for equipping ships; and the building went quiet during the first half of the 20th century. Finally, around 1950, life sprang back into the Paquachuck, and it became useful once again as both a private home and an Inn.

The property is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and deserves acknowledgment, considering the original building has been preserved since it was built. It’s stonework, and exposed beams bring guests back in time. Remodeled and tasteful redesign, plus improvements for modern day living, these small changes go unnoticed while touring thecelebrated halls, stairways, and outdoor gardens, offering an authenticexperience that delivers a spirit of adventure.

Soon, a lucky owner will discover what they have been seeking for many years; a chance to live a premium lifestyle in shorts, a polo shirt, and boat shoes.

With a greenhouse reminiscent of a period past, a garden with Koi, an art studio, and a rolling lawn leading to a pier with 10 slips for small-craft, it only takes a moment before the enchantment engulfs all senses.

Highlights of the Inn include a spacious flagstone floor and dramatic stone wall in the “members only” bar and lounge, actuated with loft-like ceilings. A chef designed the kitchen

for impressing guests with local fare, a converted country store spanning the first-floor living room, and an outdoor wrap-around porch, maintaining its original grandeur.

Paquachuck has many possible streams of income, some of which include nine well-appointed bedrooms, slip rentals, a greenhouse, and glorious views that would easily attract those interested in taking painting classes all year long.

The Inn is an opportunity of a lifetime—to live the dream and share it with others. It is a fanciful lifestyle that many wish to adopt. Now is the time to embrace this timeless treasure and add your name to its legacy—nothing could be more precious. H

The Paquachuk Inn is being offered by Milbury and Company, 790 Main Road, Westport, and 304 Elm Street, South Dartmouth. This incredible property is being offered for $1,795,00 and can be viewed by contacting Will Milbury at (C) 508.525.5200, (O) 508.997.7400, or email will@milburyre.com.