The property was purchased in 1832 by Rick Thorpe's great-great-grandfather, Charles Thorpe. The family lived in the existing 1780 house and used the property to graze sheep and cattle, and as a base for a fishing operation. The main house was built in 1870 by Rick's great-grandfather William Thorpe, in anticipation of the birth of Lewis Thorpe, Rick's grandfather.
The Harborfields business began in 1948 with the construction of the Lodge by Rick's parents, Dick and Peggy Thorpe. With this addtion, the original 1780 house was rented out for the season, and individual rooms were rented in the Lodge. Peggy Thorpe served breakfast in the main 1870 house for the convenience of the Lodge guests. The success of this small operation inspired the construction of the Shore Cottage in 1949. Hillside, Deck, Wharf, Terrace, Pine, and Rock cottages were added in succeeding years. Several excerpts from Dick Thorpe's original 1948 Harborfields Journal are published in the 2002 Harborfields Herald newsletter.
Watercolor paintings by Dick Thorpe grace the walls in the cottages, Lodge, and 1780 House. These landscapes and seascapes were painted with a great love of the area.
Since Peg Thorpe's passing in 1984, Harborfields has had several managers, with Barbara and Rick Prose serving in that capacity since 1999. Guests and their families return year after year, many still with fond memories of Peggy and Dick Thorpe.
Managers - Barbara and Rick Prose, and Owner - Rick Thorpe
