Historic Maine house listed for with conditions to avoid demolition
In a striking move to preserve a piece of history, General Dynamics Bath Iron Works has placed two residential structures on the market for a nominal price of each. Among them is the Deering House, a circa-1900 property located at 606 Washington Street in Bath, Maine, a town historically significant for its shipbuilding heritage. However, potential buyers must be prepared to bear the substantial cost and logistical challenge of relocating the building to a legally permitted site by November 20, 2027, or risk its demolition.
The Deering House, named after its original owner Gardiner G. Deering, was once a pivotal figure in Bath’s maritime industry. This prominent shipbuilder played a key role in establishing Bath’s reputation as a center for wooden ship production in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Currently, the structure is utilized as office space, with tenants under lease until late 2027.
Bath Iron Works has clearly stated that the properties will be sold “as is, where is,” free from any warranties. As such, the onus falls on the buyer to cover all relocation expenses, which may include permits, approvals, and costs associated with preparing a new site for the homes. If no buyer steps forward to facilitate the move, the Deering House is slated for demolition to accommodate new developments at Bath Iron Works.
The necessity for expansion at Bath Iron Works has sparked discussions about the historic nature of the Deering House. According to Jolene Nickerson, the director of facilities capital at Bath Iron Works, the company is committed to growth as a means to maintain its workforce and bolster the local economy. She expressed hope that a buyer with the financial means and viable plans will emerge to save the property.
Notably, Bath has a rich maritime history. Once dubbed the “City of Ships,” it ranked third in the United States for wooden vessel production as early as 1854. Deering’s own shipyard along the Kennebec River produced an impressive 99 vessels during his career, contributing significantly to Bath’s legacy in the shipbuilding industry.
Recent inquiries about the Deering House indicate a potential interest from the community in preserving its historic value. The precedent for relocating historic homes in Maine is not uncommon, as demonstrated earlier this year when a significant structure in Augusta was successfully moved at considerable expense. The ongoing situation around the Deering House presents an intriguing opportunity for preservation-minded individuals looking to engage with Bath’s storied past and save a unique architectural gem.
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