Historical Markers in
Penobscot County, Maine

A Place of Meeting A. J. “Allie” Cole Bangor Victory Platoon Bangor Water District Thomas Hill Standpipe Bangor World War II Honored Dead Baxter State Park Capt. John Ayer Charles A. Thatcher Civil War Memorial Destination Katahdin! Grand Army of the Republic Fort and Soldiers and Sailors Lot Hannibal Hamlin Hersey Memorial Building (Old Bangor City Hall) Bell Katahdin Korean War Memorial Maine Korean War Memorial Maine Vietnam Veterans Memorial Mount Katahdin Nathaniel Lord Norumbega Parkway Park Holland Paul Bunyan of Bangor, Maine Purple Heart Memorial Rev. Henry C. Henries Saltonstall's Naval Fleet Gun Samuel Call Samuel de Champlain Second Maine Regiment Site of First Permanent Jewish House of Worship in Maine Spanish Bronze Cannon Spanish-American War Memorial The Dixmont Corner Cemetery The Dixmont Town House The Golden Road Veterans Memorial Want to see a moose? Think like one! War Memorial World War II Memorial
Maine was the site of the worst maritime disaster in U.S. history: The worst maritime disaster in U.S. history occurred off the coast of Maine in 1914, when the passenger ship SS Eastland capsized, killing 844 people. The disaster was caused by overcrowding and instability due to design flaws.
Maine random facts
Penobscot County, located in the state of Maine, has a rich history that stretches back thousands of years. Before European settlers arrived, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Penobscot tribe, who were a part of the larger Wabanaki Confederacy. They relied on the abundant natural resources of the region, including fishing, hunting, and gathering.

In the early 17th century, European explorers and fur traders began to make contact with the Penobscot tribe and establish trade relationships. However, tensions between European settlers and Native Americans grew as more settlers arrived and claimed the land for themselves. This culminated in the 17th and 18th centuries with conflicts known as the Indian Wars, which resulted in the displacement and marginalization of Native American populations.

The area was officially incorporated as Penobscot County in 1816, named after the Penobscot River which flows through the region. The county quickly became an important center for timber and shipbuilding as the logging industry boomed, taking advantage of the extensive forests in the area. Sawmills and lumberyards sprang up along the river, contributing to the county's economic growth.

In the 20th century, Penobscot County continued to develop and diversify its economy. The area became a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. The city of Bangor, located in the county, emerged as a major cultural and commercial center. Today, Penobscot County is known for its natural beauty, with its forests, lakes, and rivers attracting outdoor enthusiasts. It also boasts a strong educational and healthcare system, as well as a vibrant arts and culture scene.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Penobscot County, Maine.

  • 1786 – Penobscot County established as a county in the state of Maine.
  • 19th century – The region experiences growth in agriculture and lumber industry.
  • 1830s – Bangor becomes a major lumber port, attracting settlers and businesses.
  • 1880s – The railroad reaches Penobscot County, promoting further economic development.
  • 20th century – The county goes through periods of economic prosperity and decline.
  • Mid-1900s – The decline of the lumber industry leads to a shift towards manufacturing and services.
  • 1967 – The Great Northern Paper Company, once a major employer, closes its mills.
  • 1980s – Efforts for revitalization and diversification of the local economy begin.
  • Present – Penobscot County is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a mix of rural and urban areas.