A 1908 Highland House Vacation
Mr. and Mrs. C.R. Dodge vacationed at the Highland House between June 25 and July 24, 1908. The couple checked into Room 2 of the Highland House Hotel, which opened just a year earlier by Isaac Morton Small.
New Hotel Built in 1907
In the 1800’s, the Small family began building a complex of ‘vacationer cottages’ on the surrounding land of the first lighthouse built on Cape Cod, Cape Cod Light.
Influenced by Henry David Thoreau
Henry David Thoreau,
Legend has it that Henry David Thoreau, after several visits to the lighthouse in the 1850’s, encouraged the Small family to create a true resort for all who enjoy the beauty of nature. The Highland House was built in 1907 and was the anchor hotel for the resort, which supported hotel guests, cottage renters, roller skaters, and day golfers.
“People seeking a quiet, health-giving spot, on the sea-coast of New England, where the demands of fashion are not exacting and where the ocean air with its invigorating properties is undefiled by any malarial conditions, will find the Highlands of Cape Cod particularly adapted to their wants. As a Mecca of rest for the tired pilgrim from the noisy city it has no superior along the Atlantic seaboard.”
– Highland House Brochure, 1908-1909 Season
The hotel featured a breezy wrap-around porch, a large and airy dining hall with family-style dining and live organ music entertainment, and laundry service. The hotel also featured a ‘Ladies Toilet’ – the only bathroom in the entire resort.
The guests enjoyed the healthful and restorative atmosphere on the Highlands and enjoyed the freshest food. Along with abundant seafood, Highland Dairy was located adjacent to the property. The Small family still managed the orchard and farm abutting the resort property to provide the freshest fruit and vegetables.
Judging by the length of their stay, we can assume the Dodge’s had a memorable trip!
A La Carte Services
The Highland House stay cost the Dodge’s $54.30 in 1908. (insert today’s $$ for the vacation)
Rest and Recreation on the Highland
The Dodge’s had at their disposal a pool hall, bowling alley, roller skating rink, and golf course on the property. ‘Surf bathing’ would also be available on the Atlantic, as long as a climb down and up the 130-foot bluff to the sandy beach did not discourage them.