Brief History of Maine

By | May 19, 2022

Population: 1,328.188 thousand people (2011)
Area: 91646.0 sq. km

Maine is the easternmost state in the United States and is also known as the Pine State. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Maine, the coastline of which is very winding, replete with small bays and offshore islands.

Once the territory of the state was completely covered with pine forests. There are many rivers (the largest are Penabscot, Kennebec) and lakes, some areas are swampy. Two mountain systems rise in the lands of Maine: Notre Dame in the north and the northern spurs of the Appalachians in the west and southwest. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, winters in Maine are warm, with positive temperatures, and summers are cool. The main natural resources of the state are forests, marine resources and water systems, which generate a significant amount of electricity.

Maine is an agricultural region. In particular, the state leads in the collection of potatoes. The food, logging and light industries are well developed.

On the territory of Maine, several ancient (5-3 thousand years ago) archaeological cultures were discovered. Before the advent of Europeans, Maine was inhabited by tribes of the Wabanaki group. At the beginning of the 17th century, the French arrived here, and then the British. The first wooden forts did not last long. In 1629, the name Maine appears on the map. It was the Englishmen F. Gorge and D. Mason who received a patent for the lands between the Kennebec and Merrimack rivers, which they dubbed Maine. Soon the southern part of these territories separated and became known as New Hampshire. The territory of Maine at different times was called differently and was part of different colonial formations, for which France and England fought, and after the United States and England. Maine seceded from Massachusetts in 1820 and became a full state. In the mid-19th century, Pine State became an important shipbuilding center. The Civil War only slightly touched the territory of Maine.

The Maine government encourages the development of tourism. First of all, people come here to go fishing on the lakes, to visit the ancient forests. Camping sites, tourist camps, excursions to the mountains and the Arcadia National Park and other events are available for vacationers. Augusta is home to the Maine History Museum and some old colonial-era buildings, including Old West Fort, the oldest surviving wooden fort in the United States (1745).

PORTLAND

Population: 66.194 thousand people (2010)
Area: 136.0 sq. km
Founded: 1633
City status since: 1786
Time zone: UTC-5 summer UTC-4
Altitude: 18 m

In the northeast of the country lies the city of Portland – the administrative center of Cumberland County. It is considered one of the best places for a comfortable stay in the United States. It consists of 30 neighborhoods, but each of them has no legal authority. Territorial division at one time occurred at the request of the townspeople. Many of the informal entities have local associations that liaise with the city administration. In 1899, the territory of the nearby city of Deering, adjacent to the northwestern outskirts, became part of Portland. Throughout its existence, the city has repeatedly been subjected to devastating fires, but rebuilt again. A kind of symbol of his difficult fate is the image of a phoenix on the city seal and the inscription in Latin, which means “I will rise again.” See Maine counties.

Features of the local climate – rainy summers and snowy winters. They are due to the maritime climate dominating the local territory. Before the development of North American territories by Europeans, a tiny Indian settlement of Machigonne was located on the coast of Casco Bay. With the arrival of the British, a small settlement of settlers arose in its place. Over time it developed into a borough called Falmouth. In 1676, after fierce Indian attacks and local fighting, the settlement was almost destroyed. A few years later, it was rebuilt again, but soon it was attacked again by militant tribes and, as a result, destroyed. Since then, new buildings have appeared on its streets.

In the autumn of 1775, due to the shelling of the British, many buildings were damaged. 11 years after these events, a part of it separated from the town of Falmouth to turn into a new settlement, subsequently named by the inhabitants of Portland. After Maine was founded in 1820, it was its capital for 12 years. After the loss of high status, the city was transformed into the economic center of the state. Despite the devastating fires, it continues to attract architectural values. One of them is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Its soaring spire is known as an important element of Portland’s skyline.

Brief History of Maine

Auburn, Maine

Auburn, a city in Androscoggin County, Maine, is situated along the Androscoggin River and has a history deeply rooted in industry, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city’s evolution from a small rural community to an industrial center reflects the broader economic and social changes in the region. Additionally, Auburn experiences a climate characteristic of the northeastern United States, with distinct seasons influencing the outdoor activities and lifestyle of its residents.

Auburn’s history can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was settled as part of the Pejepscot Purchase. The Androscoggin River served as a vital transportation route, facilitating the movement of people and goods in the region. The establishment of mills along the riverbanks laid the foundation for Auburn’s industrial development.

In the mid-19th century, textile and shoe manufacturing became dominant industries in Auburn, attracting a wave of immigrants seeking employment opportunities. The availability of water power from the Androscoggin River played a crucial role in powering the mills, contributing to the city’s economic growth. The shoe industry, in particular, became a major economic driver, and Auburn earned the nickname “Shoe City.”

The 20th century brought further industrial diversification, with the expansion of paper and pulp mills. The industrial sector continued to be a significant part of Auburn’s economy, shaping the city’s landscape and contributing to its identity as an industrial center in Maine.

According to Handbagpicks, Auburn’s climate is classified as humid continental, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Average high temperatures in the winter months range from the low 20s to low 30s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1°C), while summer highs typically range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C). The city experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with snowfall common in the winter months.

The changing seasons in Auburn contribute to a variety of outdoor activities enjoyed by residents. The city boasts several parks and natural areas, including the Auburn Riverwalk, a scenic trail along the Androscoggin River. Outdoor enthusiasts have opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other recreational activities, while winter brings opportunities for snow sports.

Auburn’s commitment to education is reflected in its schools and institutions of higher learning. The city is home to Central Maine Community College, contributing to the educational and workforce development needs of the community.

Over the years, Auburn has experienced shifts in its economic landscape, with a decline in traditional manufacturing industries. However, the city has embraced efforts to revitalize its downtown area and diversify its economy. The historic district features well-preserved architecture and serves as a focal point for community events and cultural activities.

The Androscoggin River, once a vital industrial waterway, has undergone environmental restoration efforts to improve water quality and promote recreational use. The riverfront area has been transformed into a space for parks, trails, and community gatherings, adding to the quality of life in Auburn.

Auburn’s commitment to preserving its history is evident in places like the Androscoggin Historical Society, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s past. The city’s historic districts, including New Auburn and the Downtown Auburn Historic District, offer a glimpse into Auburn’s architectural heritage.

Auburn, Maine, stands as a city with a history rooted in industrial development, particularly in textile, shoe manufacturing, and paper production. The city’s evolution reflects the economic changes in the region, and efforts to diversify its economy and revitalize its downtown demonstrate a commitment to growth and community well-being. Auburn’s climate, with its distinct seasons, adds to the variety of experiences enjoyed by its residents, making it a place where history, industry, and the outdoors come together to shape the identity of this New England city.