The east side of the Damariscotta River once contained an enormous shell heap named Whaleback because of its shape. Much of this midden was removed in the late 1880s to supply a factory built here to process the oyster shells into chicken feed. As a result, only a small portion of Whaleback remains today. Managed in cooperation with the Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, the area around the midden is now a State Historic Site that includes a small hiking trail and beautiful views of the river. A series of interpretive panels helps inform visitors about the history of the area.

Our community's presence in the tavern feels like its seeping out of the walls. It has been what has made our little "off the water" neighborhood tavern so sublime. Do we have an amazing view? Yes, but it's not the ocean or a mountain skyline, it's your friends, family or co-workers playing bocce, cribbage, or throwing the "brass ring". Laughing and eating superb foods created alongside great local beer are as common as the salt and pepper shakers on our tables.