7 Must-See Historic Towns in Maine

Maine holds a special spot in the story of the United States of America. At first, it was part of Massachusetts, but then, on March 15, 1820, it became its very own state because of the Missouri Compromise.

Maine's rich history began with its indigenous Native American populations long before European settlers arrived in large numbers. Over time, the state became a significant center for the shipbuilding and timber industries.

Today, in Maine, people celebrate its heritage of ships and the sea, enjoy a lively world of art, and take the lead in taking care of nature. This special mix keeps Maine's past alive and makes its modern life exciting. So come follow along and discover these seven must-see historic towns in Maine.

Brunswick

Brunswick is a prototypical New England town, with beautiful fall foliage, the waves of the Atlantic close by, and a charming, lively local culture. Located in town, Bowdoin College is among the oldest colleges in the United States, established in 1794. Some well-known people, such as the American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and former U.S. President Franklin Pierce, were educated at this very place. Anyone interested in the Arctic can find a museum at the university celebrating Robert E. Peary and Donald B. MacMillan, two Arctic explorers.

The town is also where Harriet Beecher Stowe began writing her important book "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Her work went a long way to help change the way Americans saw slavery.

Old Orchard Beach

Imagine yourself at Old Orchard Beach, where an immense pier stretches like a giant's arm 500 feet over the Atlantic. Since its construction in 1898, and after several reconstructions, the pier has become a favorite place for folks to find fun and dance the night away. As seen in the town's name, beaches run on for miles with soft, white sand for fun and relaxation.

The Old Orchard Historical Society does a great job preserving Old Orchard Beaches' history and detailing the pier's past, which includes performances by Jazz legends Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. It is a testament that the town's reputation as a vacation stop has remained strong for decades. The iconic Palace Playland, which opened in 1902, is a combination of classic and modern thrills for anyone interested in old-school amusement. The old-fashioned Ferris wheel is a particular hit!

Portland

Portland was first settled in 1633 and comes with a history filled with significant events. Located just 15 minutes from downtown, the Portland Head Light is one of the area's favorite subjects for photographers. It was none other than George Washington, the nation’s inaugural president, who gave the green light for its construction.

In 1866, a huge fire swept through Portland, leaving the city in ruins. This called for a big project to rebuild and get the city back on its feet. From the ashes, places like Old Port District remain a reflection of the town's determination. When strolling down its cobblestone streets, you'll see the 19th-century brick buildings, home to a vibrant collection of stores to pop into.

Also, look for the Victoria Mansion, which is of pre-Civil War grandeur. This grand old house was built back in 1860 and remains special today because it has kept its pristine look, inside and outside.

Rockport

When in Rockport, it is easy to notice its captivating past. Established in 1769, this spot was first known as Goose River Village.

Rockport has been important for different kinds of work, like shipbuilding, mining limestone, and ice harvesting. Rockport's lime was an essential ingredient in fixing up Washington, D.C., following the War of 1812.

In Rockport, guests are always drawn to the Beech Nut, sitting on top of Beech Hill. It is a part of the Beech Hill Preserve and was built around 1914. Right at the hut's doorstep, you will get lovely sights of the nearby bay and hills.

If anyone's interested in an overlap between golf and history, The Megunticook Golf Club in Rockport has a big place in the state's golf history. Founded in 1899, it is among Maine’s earliest private golf venues.

Augusta

 

The story of Maine's capital goes back, way back. All the way in the 1600s, English explorers stumbled upon a spot we today know as Augusta. As the town grew in significance, it eventually became the capital of the state in 1827. Its downtown is a mix of historic brick and stone buildings, with the Kennebec River running alongside, reflecting the red brick off the clear water surface.

Located in Augusta, Old Fort Western is America's oldest surviving wooden fort. It was originally constructed as a British colonial outpost and has served various purposes throughout its past, including a store and a residence. Now, it is a museum teaching all about early colonial life.

For even more local stories, the Maine State Museum provides a comprehensive overview of Maine's natural and cultural legacy, including its maritime, quarry, and woodworking industries.

Freeport

Freeport traces its origins back to its incorporation in 1789 and got its name due to its open harbor being "free of ice."

With over two centuries of history, Freeport has some amazing locations to see. To soak in the iconic, aged feel of the town, visit the Harraseeket Historic District. This area preserves Freeport's heritage with buildings like Pettengill House and Farm and the Captain Greenfield Pote House.

The aforementioned Pettengill Farm is a 19th-century saltbox farmhouse, with gorgeous trails running alongside it and the Harraseeket River. It is a one-of-a-kind local look at 19th-century farm life.

There is also interesting natural history. The Desert of Maine was formed by a glacial outwash, leaving 20 acres of dunes roughly four miles from downtown Freeport.

Castine

Castine has a backstory predating the time most Europeans made homes in North America. People started living around Castine seven years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth.

There is no shortage of beautiful old buildings in Castine. You can find countless historical markers all over town. One of those structures is the Castine Post Office, which stands as one of the oldest post offices in continuous operation in the country.

Also, take a look at the white-painted facade of the Cate House, notable for its connection to Sanford Dole, who married the daughter of Jane and Charles Cate, who owned the home at the time. Dole became the first and only president of Hawaii in 1894.

On the west of town, the ruins of Fort George are a reminder of Castine's military past. It was built by the British in 1779 during the Revolutionary War to counter American forces.

Maine's vibrant history, from its early days under Massachusetts to its evolution into a state central to shipbuilding and timber, remains alive in its people's hearts. The state has long celebrated its nautical history, its intimate relationship with the arts, and its love of nature. This unique blend enhances the rich heritage of Maine, bringing added charm to contemporary life in the region. From the Atlantic coast to the bright colors of fall, you will have an unforgettable journey through Maine's storied past and lively present.