The Lady In The Moon

Does this look familiar? It’s (and the left) and ’s old space (on the right) circa 1900.

I did a little digging and found the Chamber of Commerce Journal of Maine, May 1908 featuring an article on Mitchell’s Oyster House.

According to this Board of Trade article, Mitchell’s was one of the largest, most popular and attractive oyster and chop houses in Maine with a long and enviable reputation for smart service which goes back to a period over half a century.

It opened in the early 1850s by Allen Freeman who made the spot known for specialty oyster and clam dinners. In April 1900, Joseph Mitchell, a former employee of the restaurant for over 10 years, took possession of the business. He was described as a progressive and far-sighted businessman.

When Mitchell took over the business, it was said to be a very small affair, employing only 5 people. But, under his direction, the business flourished rapidly. He ended up leasing the whole Chaote block and remodeled the first two floors to accommodate his growing business.

The kitchen was located in the basement and was equipped with modern appliances of the time. The ground floor was the gentleman’s dining area seating up to 90 guests. The ladies’ dining area was located on the second floor with a seating capacity for 75. The second floor also featured a private dining space, called The Dutch Room, reserved for special events and private parties.

The article says, the floors were artistically and appropriately decorated and patronized all seasons of the year. Patrons could be assured good homemade edibles in generous portions. It also explains that Mitchell’s success was due to his staff making people feel at home and extending to them an open handed hospitality that was always greatly appreciated.

Many women would even leave their bundles and packages at the restaurant while shopping and then would return for dinner. “Meet me at Mitchell’s” was a by-word among the people who returned to the restaurant for decades.