The house
Built in 1847. Restored for today.
The Delphian began as a Greek Revival residence and has been carefully restored for its next chapter as a Portland inn.
The early years
A Portland home with a long history.
Built in 1847, the Greek Revival home was commissioned by merchant Thomas W. O'Brion. His success in international trade before the Civil War was reflected in its Ionic columns and classical architecture.
Soon after it was built, the house became home to Albert S. Rines. The Rines family went on to found Maine's first department store, own several of Portland's grand hotels, and build a New England broadcasting network that included WCSH.
In the late 1920s, the house became the R.J. Duddy Funeral Home and served Portland families for nearly a century. The Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home moved to a new facility in 2025, making way for The Delphian.
The name
Why The Delphian?
The name is inspired by the Delphian Club, an early nineteenth-century literary society co-founded by Portland writer and social reformer John Neal, who lived across State Street and is buried nearby in Western Cemetery.
Named for the Oracle of Delphi, the club celebrated curiosity, creativity, learning, and spirited conversation—ideas that feel at home in this historic Portland setting.
The guest rooms
9 rooms for a restful stay.
The photographed ensuite pairs marble tile with a wood vanity and a frameless glass shower.
Inside The Delphian
Restored details throughout the house.
The photographed guest-room entry retains hardwood trim and opens to a bright room beyond.
Contact The Delphian