NORTHEAST HARBOR — As The Knowles Company celebrates its 127-year legacy, it is with great pride and heartfelt emotion that we announce the retirement of Keating Pepper as an owner, effective Dec. 31, 2024. Keating, who has been a cornerstone of the company since 1988 and co-purchased the business in 1994, has left an indelible mark on both the company and the community.
For over a century, The Knowles Company has stood as a pillar of excellence in real estate and vacation rentals on Mount Desert Island and beyond. Founded in 1898 by Belle Smallidge Knowles, it was built on a foundation of professionalism, local expertise, and a commitment to community. Guided by Kathy and Bob Suminsby, who led the business from 1972 to 1994, the company evolved through generations of leadership while preserving its reputation. Today, The Knowles Company remains a trusted name, continuing to honor its legacy as a boutique, independent company while adapting to meet the needs of a modern market.
Pepper joined The Knowles Company as a broker in 1988 and became a co-owner in 1994, helping guide the company into a new era of independence. His leadership, professionalism, and community involvement have left an indelible mark on both the company and Mount Desert Island. Keating has long enjoyed sailing the Maine coast and is a trustee of the Mount Desert Island YMCA, where he remains actively involved in child development initiatives. Readers can learn more about his legacy in the March 2025 edition of the KnowlesLetter, available on Knowlesco.com
As Pepper steps back, The Knowles Company welcomes a generational shift in ownership, combining the wisdom of long-time leaders with the energy and vision of new partners. Joining existing owners Mia Thompson and Kate Chaplin are Claire Dorwart, Kitty Barbee, and Emily Anne Pepper. Together, this team reflects the company’s steadfast commitment to its traditions while embracing opportunities for growth.
Dorwart, who joined The Knowles Company in 2024 as business manager, has already made a significant impact on daily operations, leveraging her expertise in team leadership and operational systems to strengthen the company and position it for success. Barbee, the company’s CFO, brings a wealth of financial expertise and a strong commitment to the company’s future, ensuring stability and strategic growth. Both Dorwat and Barbee’s expanded roles as owners are a natural progression of their deep involvement in the company’s daily business and long-term planning. Anne, the daughter-in-law of Pepper, brings her strong ties to the family business and a deep appreciation for the Mount Desert Island community.
The Knowles Company’s legacy is deeply rooted in female leadership and a proud connection to Boston University. Founder Belle Smallidge Knowles, the first woman from Mount Desert to attend Boston University, set a standard of excellence that continues with current owners Mia Thompson and Claire Dorwart, both Boston University alumni. This shared connection underscores the company’s enduring commitment to excellence, leadership, and a vision that bridges its historic roots with its evolving future.
“Keating’s retirement is a moment of reflection and celebration,” said Mia Thompson, owner and president. “We honor his years of dedication and look ahead with excitement as our new ownership team carries The Knowles Company into its next chapter, staying true to our principles of professionalism, integrity, and community stewardship.”
Founded in 1898, The Knowles Company is a boutique real estate agency located in Northeast Harbor, Maine. Known for its unmatched expertise, local connections, and commitment to service, the company remains a leader in the Mount Desert Island real estate market.
