Here's a sneak peek at the Boothbay Region Garden Club's July 25th Home and Garden Tour.

You'll want to know more, but that will come later. Start making your plans now to visit these very special homes.

We were so fortunate to welcome our first home, the original Annable homestead. It was built in the 1940s, has a lovely interior with many original details, pleasant walking gardens, spectacular water views and even a small historic cemetery. After acquiring this historical home, all the other "Homes with a History" fell into place on the tour.

Next, we have the original YMCA Campus, built as a health spa in 1840. This property, steeped in local history, boasts a natural saltwater pool where many of you may have learned to swim. Check out the view of Back Narrows and Fort Hill Island, and the picnic area included.

Nearby, is the former Back Narrows Social Club, used in the 1930s for delightful nights of music and dancing. later the club became the "Y" Day Care Center. The present owner moved the building, retained the original stage and a mid-century kitchen. Across the road, find an open field leading to the owner's dock where the view is complimentary and invites you to enjoy the scenery.

Sawyer's Island offers us a sprawling, bright home with a view of the Sheepscot from lovely decks, and antiques everywhere including many of the owners "finds." This home evokes memories, grand stories (not all true), a happy atmosphere and Eddie too. Look for him! Many unusual displays abound with a guarantee that you won't have seen this elsewhere. The owner is an avid gardener to boot!

Barters Island brings us to an 1860s home, true to its origins and the interests of the present owners, the owners are antique buffs, having had a business for many years. Their most precious pieces, "loved ones," came to live in this home. With modern amenities hidden in plain sight, this property has maintained its original character. A "no pesticides" garden greets you on entry just as it did in 1860. Another gem, just like all our other homes.

Southport Island has no shortage of older homes. This home has expanded with the times and evolved into a very comfortable, open-concept design with bold views of the west side of Southport, Lower Mark Island, and Sheepscot Bay out to Sequin Island. The owners have built a sea-wall deck and expansive gardens with very interesting, original artwork. An antique auto in their apartment garage indulges the owner's hobby. Don't miss the "leopards' lurking among the trees!"

Your last home to visit (or first), is an 18th century cape moved here from Webster, N.H., joining a barn brought from Vermont. These structures, put together, are most architecturally pleasing in their design and complementary to the view and the site. Outstanding collections, artfully displayed and views to the south of Hendricks Hill Lighthouse, north to Sequin, and the village of Five Islands directly opposite, make this a memorable stop on any tour.

We anticipate that most owners will be available to answer questions and regale you with tales of old.

You'll remember that we sold out last year, so please plan ahead and purchase your tickets early. Garden Club members will be first in line for tickets, so don't delay!