Imagine strolling down a quiet, tree-lined street in Bangor, Maine, when suddenly, you come across a grand, red Victorian mansion that seems to leap out of one of Stephen King’s novels. This is no coincidence for Stephen King fans. This historic home, with its lush foliage and ornate wrought-iron fence, belongs to none other than the legendary horror author himself, Stephen King. The property is often referred to as the King’s house. But this isn’t the only property that calls Stephen King House. Down south, in the sunny state of Florida, King owns a contemporary waterfront retreat on Casey Key. These two iconic homes offer a fascinating glimpse into the life and creative mind of Stephen King, one of the most prolific and influential writers of our time.
Key Takeaways
- Stephen King owns two iconic homes: a Victorian mansion in Bangor, Maine, and a contemporary waterfront retreat in Casey Key, Florida.
- The Bangor mansion is a landmark for King’s fans, featuring 19th-century Italianate Villa-style architecture and a famously ornate wrought-iron fence, known locally as the iron gate.
- The Casey Key home is a modern, secluded beachfront property that offers King a peaceful writing sanctuary.
- Both homes reflect King’s deep roots and philanthropic efforts in their respective communities, making them significant not only for their architecture but also for any Stephen King fan.
Bangor, Maine: The Red Victorian Mansion
Architectural Details
Stephen King’s most famous residence is his grand, red Victorian mansion located at 47 West Broadway in Bangor, Maine. This historic home has become a landmark for King’s devoted fans, who flock to the city to catch a glimpse of the author’s abode.
The King mansion is a stunning example of 19th-century Italianate Villa-style architecture, featuring an impressive iron gate at its entrance. The 4,952 square-foot home features five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and sits on two acres of land. Some of the key architectural features include:
- A prominent, towering entryway covered in lush foliage
- A black wrought-iron fence adorned with spiders, bat-winged creatures, and a three-headed dragon
- Numerous large, glass windows and a balcony with ornate balusters
- A color scheme of deep red with white trim, giving the home a historic, Gothic appearance
The mansion was built in stages, with the initial wooden tower structure constructed first, followed by an expansion in 1895 and the addition of the substantial front porch in 1912. Despite its age, the home has been well-maintained and retains much of its original character and charm.
The Neighborhood and Surroundings
The King mansion is situated in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood on West Broadway in Bangor, where many other historic, large homes of former sawmill barons once resided. This area is often visited by Stephen King fans hoping to see Stephen King’s house. The broad, shaded main street provides a picturesque setting for the author’s iconic red home, also known as Stephen King’s house.
Directly behind the property is Hayford Park, offering the King family a sense of privacy and seclusion. The neighborhood’s well-preserved manors and the proximity to the park create a serene, almost timeless atmosphere that is fitting for the renowned horror writer’s abode.
Visitor Experiences
While the King house is a private residence and not open for public tours, fans can still catch a glimpse of the property from the sidewalk along West Broadway. Many visitors come to take photos of the home, particularly the ornate wrought-iron fence that adorns the front of the property.
In the past, the King family has allowed limited access to the property for special events, such as the Bangor Reading Festival. However, these opportunities are rare, and the home remains largely off-limits to the general public, leaving many Stephen King fans eager for a glimpse.
Casey Key, Florida: The Contemporary Waterfront Retreat
Architectural Style and Features
In addition to his iconic home in Bangor, Stephen King also owns a stunning, contemporary waterfront residence on Casey Key, a barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida. This property serves as a retreat and writing sanctuary for the author and his family.
King’s Florida home is a 7,500-square-foot, concrete-and-glass structure with a copper roof. The three-bedroom, five-bathroom residence sits on three acres of secluded beachfront property, offering sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and Midnight Pass.
Some of the key features of this contemporary home include:
- Expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the water
- A modern, open-concept layout with ample living and entertaining spaces, this house in Bangor offers a glimpse into King’s unique style.
- A private swimming pool and other luxury amenities
- A secluded, gated location that offers privacy and seclusion
The home’s architectural style and materials, such as the copper roof and concrete construction, give it a distinctive, modern appearance that contrasts with the historic Victorian mansion in Bangor.
Acquisition and Significance
King purchased this Florida property in 2001 for a record-breaking $8.9 million, making it one of the most expensive homes ever sold in Sarasota County at the time. The author was drawn to the home’s secluded location, sweeping water views, and ample space for writing and relaxation.
This Florida retreat has become an important part of King’s creative process, providing him with a peaceful and inspiring environment to work on his numerous novels and short stories, much like his house in Bangor does. The home’s isolation and natural setting offer a stark contrast to the bustling, historic neighborhood of his Bangor mansion, allowing King to find the solitude and focus he needs as a prolific writer.
The King Family’s Philanthropic Efforts
In addition to their iconic homes, Stephen and Tabitha King have also made significant philanthropic contributions to their local communities in Maine and Florida, particularly near Stephen King’s house and their Casey Key property. Through the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation, the couple has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including education, the arts, and social services.
In Bangor, the King Foundation has supported numerous initiatives, such as the renovation of the Bangor Public Library, the construction of a new baseball stadium, and the establishment of scholarships for local students. The foundation has also provided funding for various cultural events and organizations in the city, further cementing the King family’s deep roots and impact on the community, especially among Stephen King fans.
Similarly, in Florida, the Kings have used their wealth and influence to support local charities and institutions. This includes donations to the Sarasota Film Festival and the Sarasota Reading Festival, both of which have honored the author for his contributions to literature and the arts. Many of these events attract Stephen King fans from all over.
Conclusion
Stephen King’s iconic homes in Bangor, Maine, and Casey Key, Florida, offer a unique glimpse into the life and creative process of one of the most celebrated and influential authors of our time, making them a must-see for any Stephen King fan. While the Bangor mansion has become a pilgrimage site for his devoted fans, the Florida retreat provides the author with a peaceful and inspiring environment to continue his prolific literary output.
Beyond their architectural significance, these homes also reflect the King family’s deep commitment to their local communities, with the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation making significant philanthropic contributions in both Maine and Florida. As Stephen King continues to captivate readers around the world, his iconic homes will undoubtedly remain enduring symbols of his legacy and influence.
