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King’s Bangor Victorian Home Becomes Literary Archive and Writers’ Retreat

By TOI World Desk

Forty‑six years after Stephen King purchased the red Victorian house at 47 West Broadway in Bangor, Maine, for $135,000, the property has been converted into a literary archive and a writers’ retreat. The Second Empire house, built in 1858 and known for its wrought‑iron gate with bat and gargoyle motifs, now houses King’s extensive collection of private papers, original manuscripts and other literary materials. The archives are not open to the public, but scholars and researchers may visit by appointment.

Adjacent to the house, the historic Brown Mansion at 39 West Broadway operates as a fully funded writers’ residency. The Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation offers 10‑day stays to selected writers, providing private bedrooms, shared living spaces, a fully stocked kitchen and group dinners each evening. Each resident receives a $2,500 stipend to cover travel or other expenses.

The foundation’s residency program targets three groups: recent MFA graduates, K‑12 educators (including retired teachers with at least eight years of experience), and Maine writers who have published work or contributed to literary journals. Applications are judged anonymously on writing samples and proposed work plans.

In late 2019, the Bangor City Council approved a zoning change that allowed the Kings to transform their 3.27‑acre property into a non‑profit archive centre and to establish the neighbouring guest house as a writers’ retreat. The Kings emphasized that the retreat would operate quietly and respect the residential character of West Broadway, helping to preserve the historic neighborhood while supporting literary creation.