Phillips High School
a.k.a. Paul G. Whittemore Building; Phillips Public Library
96 Main St., Phillips, ME Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2021.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
Maine played an important role in the Underground Railroad: Maine was a major stop on the Underground Railroad, which was a network of secret routes and safe houses used by slaves to escape to freedom in the North.
The county's early economy was based on agriculture and lumbering. The fertile soils of the region allowed for successful farming, with crops like potatoes, hay, and corn being grown. Lumbering was also a major industry, with vast forests providing ample resources for the construction and shipbuilding industries.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Franklin County saw a boom in the manufacturing sector. Numerous mills and factories were built along the county's rivers, harnessing the power of water to fuel their operations. Products such as paper, textiles, shoes, and furniture were produced, providing employment opportunities to the local population.
The decline of the manufacturing sector in the mid-20th century had a significant impact on Franklin County. Many industries closed down or scaled back their operations, leading to job losses and a decline in population. However, the county has since diversified its economy, focusing on tourism, outdoor recreation, and healthcare services. The beautiful lakes, rivers, and mountains of Franklin County attract outdoor enthusiasts, while the county's healthcare facilities provide essential services to local residents and visitors alike. Today, Franklin County remains a picturesque and vibrant community with a rich history and a resilient spirit.
Franklin County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Franklin County, Maine.
- 1776 - Franklin County is established
- 1789 - Farmington is incorporated as a town
- 1806 - Industry is incorporated as a town
- 1844 - Wilton is incorporated as a town
- 1854 - Strong is incorporated as a town
- 1855 - Jay is incorporated as a town
- 1860 - Freeman is incorporated as a town
- 1870 - Kingfield is incorporated as a town
- 1937 - Mount Abram is incorporated as a plantation
- 1939 - Carrabassett Valley is incorporated as a plantation
- 1955 - Rangeley is incorporated as a town
- 1971 - Carthage is incorporated as a town
- 1971 - Chesterville is incorporated as a town
- 1971 - New Sharon is incorporated as a town