The Garrett County Department of Business Development recently joined the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, community leaders, elected officials, and local business representatives in celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Deer Park Inn, recognizing three decades of exceptional hospitality while honoring one of Garrett County's most treasured historic landmarks.
Owned and operated by Pascal and Nadine "Sandy" Fontaine since 1996, the Deer Park Inn offers elegant dining and overnight accommodations within the historic Pennington Cottage, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Inn is widely recognized for Chef Pascal Fontaine's French cuisine, inspired by his international travels and featuring locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Throughout his distinguished culinary career, Pascal has also prepared meals for presidential administrations, including those of Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
Representatives from the Garrett County Department of Business Development participating in the celebration included Business Development Manager Kim Durst and Business Development Specialist Connor Norman, who also serves as Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats. They were joined by Garrett County Commissioner Paul Edwards, Garrett County Administrator Kevin Null, Town of Deer Park Mayor Donald Dawson, Deer Park Town Council member Bob Beverage, Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area Director Amber Sanders, Heritage Area Advisory Board members Korey Layman, Patty Manown Mash, and Siera Wigfield, and Garrett County Chamber of Commerce President Nick Sharps.
Norman served as master of ceremonies and read an official citation from Congresswoman April McClain Delaney recognizing the Deer Park Inn's 30-year milestone. Commissioner Edwards presented a commendation on behalf of the Board of Garrett County Commissioners commemorating the occasion. Guests also enjoyed an assortment of French hors d'oeuvres prepared by the Fontaine family.
Originally constructed in 1889 as the Pennington Cottage, the late-19th-century Shingle Style mansion was built as part of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Deer Park Hotel complex and served as the summer residence of prominent Baltimore architect Josias Pennington. It remains one of the few surviving structures from an era when Deer Park attracted presidents, national dignitaries, and visitors from across the country.
Many of the home's original features remain intact, including a portrait of Josias Pennington and furnishings left behind by the Pennington family. According to National Register documentation, the family ceased returning to Deer Park around 1919, and the hotel and most of its associated buildings were abandoned following the resort's closure in 1929. The Pennington Cottage was later restored and preserved, becoming one of the finest remaining examples of the historic resort complex.
"Historic places like the Deer Park Inn help define Garrett County's identity. The Fontaines have demonstrated that preserving our heritage and supporting our local economy can go hand in hand. Their investment in this historic property has strengthened our tourism industry, enriched our community, and ensured that an important piece of Garrett County's history will continue to be enjoyed by future generations. We are grateful for their dedication and congratulate them on 30 outstanding years," said Garrett County Commissioner Paul Edwards.
Looking ahead, the Fontaines are pursuing funding opportunities and community partnerships to support future restoration projects, helping ensure the Deer Park Inn continues to serve as both a premier hospitality destination and an enduring symbol of Garrett County's rich history.
The Garrett County Diplomats—Kim Carter, Crystal Dayton, Patty Manown Mash, Kristin Skeweris, and Dave Stephens—assisted with the celebration and presented the Fontaine family with a Milestone Certificate of Recognition honoring 30 years of business in Garrett County.
The Deer Park Inn is located at 65 Hotel Road in Deer Park, Maryland. For reservations or additional information, visit the Deer Park Inn's website or call 301-334-2308.
