National Register Listing

Main Street Historic District (Boundary Increase)

170-270 Main St., 4-5 Bristol Rd., Damariscotta, ME
Local significance of the district:
Politics/government

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

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 was originally part of Massachusetts: Maine was a part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and was officially recognized as a separate state on March 15, 1820, becoming the 23rd state of the United States.
Maine random facts
Lincoln County, located in the state of Maine, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by the Wabanaki people, who relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering for their livelihoods. European settlement began in the early 1600s when English explorers arrived in the region. The first European settlement was established in what is now known as Pemaquid, a small peninsula located on the eastern coast of Lincoln County.

During the colonial period, Lincoln County played a significant role in the struggles between English and French forces for control of North America. Pemaquid became a strategic trading and military outpost, changing hands several times between the English and the French, as well as being attacked by Native American tribes. The area was eventually abandoned in the late 18th century, following the American Revolutionary War.

The 19th century saw the rise of maritime industries in Lincoln County, particularly shipbuilding and fishing. Towns along the coast, such as Boothbay Harbor and Damariscotta, flourished as major centers of trade and commerce. Shipbuilders constructed sturdy vessels for trade and fishing, while the fishing industry thrived due to the abundance of marine resources. The region also became popular for its abundant lumber, which was used for shipbuilding and exported to other parts of the country.

In the 20th century, the economy of Lincoln County diversified with the growth of tourism and agriculture. The county's stunning coastline and picturesque towns became popular tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the world. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming and lobstering, also remained important to the local economy. Today, Lincoln County continues to be a blend of traditional industries and modern amenities, offering visitors and residents a glimpse into its fascinating history while embracing the opportunities of the present.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lincoln County, Maine.

  • 1760: Lincoln County, Maine, is originally part of York County.
  • 1760-1771: The area is settled by European immigrants.
  • 1760s-1770s: Numerous conflicts arise between settlers and Native American tribes.
  • 1760s-1770s: The townships of Lincoln County are established.
  • 1777: Lincoln County is officially incorporated, named after Revolutionary War General Benjamin Lincoln.
  • 1809: The county seat is established in Wiscasset, Maine.
  • 19th Century: Lincoln County experiences significant maritime growth, with shipbuilding and fishing becoming major industries.
  • 1950s: The decline of the fishing and shipbuilding industries begins.
  • 1970s-1990s: Lincoln County's economy shifts towards tourism and recreation.
  • Present: Lincoln County continues to be a popular area for outdoor activities, attracting visitors and residents alike.