Our History
About The Northeastland Hotel
The Northeastland Hotel has stood at the center of downtown Presque Isle for nearly a century. Its story begins in January 1900, when The Presque Isle House Hotel was lost to fire. From those ashes, the Northeastland was rebuilt and reopened in 1932.
Today, after thoughtful renovation, the hotel blends its historic character with modern comfort — elegantly restored rooms, an in-house restaurant, and event spaces that have hosted generations of gatherings.
Our Ownership
Owned by the Community, for the Community
The Northeastland Hotel is owned by Ignite Presque Isle (IgnitePI), a local non-profit dedicated to growing Aroostook County’s economy and quality of life. When you stay with us, you’re supporting a mission.
Our Mission
To bring people and businesses together to grow our community through inclusive, innovative, and locally focused efforts.
Our Vision
To make our community a dynamic hub of business, where connection, creativity, and local growth drive long-term transformation.
Every dollar spent at the hotel flows back into the community, funding programs that connect people, support local businesses, and invest in the future of Presque Isle.
The People Behind The Hotel
Our Staff: The Lifeblood of the Hotel
LeRae Kinney
CEO of IgnitePI
Working at Ignite PI is exciting in so many ways—there’s nothing better than being surrounded by passionate people who are building a stronger, more vibrant Presque Isle every day.
I love the energy, the collaboration, and the chance to help ideas grow into something that truly benefits our community.
Paige Caron
Finance Manager
Paige enjoys working at Ignite Presque Isle because of the friendly atmosphere and the flexibility that truly puts family first. She appreciates that no day is ever the same, something uncommon in most jobs.
Paige supports Ignite’s mission to revitalize Aroostook County and bring more people to the area to help support other businesses in the community. She resides in Chapman with her husband, Bryan, and their daughter, Londyn.
Petros Assefa
Project Manager
I am proud to work for Ignite PI.
What inspired me to join the organization was the genuine passion, forward-thinking vision, and ambitious plans for community growth that the team brings to the table. I am excited to contribute my skills and energy to support the continued success and positive impact of Ignite PI.
Banquet & Event Coordinator
Working at Ignite PI has been a phenomenal journey so far! I’m surrounded by a passionate and deeply invested team who all have the shared goal of realizing the vision of an effervescent Presque Isle and it shows every day when I see how hard they work.
I feel that we have fostered an environment that is open to collaboration and supportive of the types of creative endeavors that fuels the fires of innovation, and this is exactly what we need to continue growing our beloved city!
Workforce Development Coordinator
I am proud to serve as Workforce Development Coordinator for Ignite PI. What inspired me to join was the organization’s genuine commitment to empowering individuals through meaningful career pathways and skills development.
I was drawn to the team’s innovative approach to connecting community members with opportunities that transform lives. I am excited to help build programs that equip people with the tools they need to thrive professionally and contribute to our community’s economic vitality.
Lead Receptionist
I like working at Ignite PI because I get to work with great people every day. I grew up in this community, so being part of Ignite PI lets me stay connected to where I’m from.
I enjoy collaborating with a team that’s supportive and committed to doing good work. Working here feels meaningful, and I’m proud to be part of it.
Housekeeping Supervisor
I like working here because it’s like a family. I’ve been here 27 years, and it feels like a family more now than it has ever in the past.
Housekeeping Supervisor
I am proud to work as Housekeeping Supervisor for Ignite PI. What inspired me to join was the organization’s respect for every role and the team’s commitment to maintaining spaces that reflect our values of excellence and care.
I was drawn to the supportive environment and the opportunity to lead a dedicated team that takes pride in creating clean, welcoming spaces for our community. I am excited to contribute to Ignite PI’s mission by ensuring our facilities support the important work happening here every day.
Recognition & affiliations
Awards & Community Memberships
We’re proud of the recognition we’ve received and the organizations we stand alongside in Aroostook County.
Best of Aroostook – Place to Stay — 2026
Voted Best Place to Stay in Aroostook County by Aroostook County Tourism for 2026. We’re proud to be recognized by the community we call home.
Best Places to Work in Maine — 2024
Awarded by Maine’s business community, recognizing our commitment to building a workplace where staff feel valued and proud to show up every day. For a hotel with a 27-year housekeeping veteran on staff, it means everything.
Economic Development Business of the Year — 2023
Presented by the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce for our role in revitalizing downtown Presque Isle — from the building renovation to jobs, event spaces, and Rodney’s restaurant.
Maine Office of Tourism
Listed as a recommended destination for visitors exploring the state — connecting travelers with everything Northern Maine has to offer.
Maine Tourism Association
LeRae Kinney is a proud member of Maine’s statewide tourism association’s board.
Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce
Active member supporting local business in Aroostook County.
Aroostook Tourism — The Crown of Maine
Partners in promoting Northern Maine as a travel destination. As the county’s largest historic hotel, we play an active role in bringing visitors to the region.
Hospitality Maine
Proud member of Maine’s statewide hospitality association.
Maine Office of Tourism
Listed as a recommended destination for visitors exploring the state — connecting travelers with everything Northern Maine has to offer.
Ready to Visit?
Come Experience It for Yourself
Historic charm, modern comfort, and a team that genuinely cares about your stay.