National Register Listing

Bates Mill Historic District

a.k.a. Bates Division; Bates Manufacturing Company

Roughly bounded by Canal St, Chestnut St, Lincoln St and Main St, Lewiston, ME
The Bates Mill Historic District is a significant complex of industrial buildings dedicated to textile manufacturing situated within the mill-city of Lewiston Maine. The historic district, which contains 15 buildings, 11 structures, 1 object, and 2 sites and is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places at the local level under Criterion A for its industrial significance, as a property associated with the production of cotton and wool textiles, and specialty cloths for over a century. The Historic District also achieves significance under criterion A for its associations with community planning and development as one of the first planned industrial facilities in a planned 'company' town, and later for providing employment to the French-Canadian immigrants who came to Lewiston specifically to work in the mills. As a complex that embodies the distinctive characteristics of slow-burning construction, and that reflects the evolution of industrial architecture over a seventy-five-year period, the Bates Mill Historic District also meets Criterion C for its architectural significance. Of particular distinction is the Modernist style Mill #5, designed by architect Albert Kahn in 1912, which was built utilizing the "Kahn Method" of reinforced concrete construction. The period of significance commences in 1850, with the construction of the canal to supply power to the mill, and ends in 1960, which is 50 years before the present and after the physical development of the complex was complete and operations of the mills began to close down. As a whole, the Bates Mills Historic District possesses integrity of location, design, materials, workmanship, feeling, setting, and association to the period of significance.
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Industry; Community Planning And Development

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2010.

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.
Maine random facts
Androscoggin County, located in the state of Maine, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. The area was historically inhabited by the Abenaki Native American tribe who utilized the Androscoggin River, which runs through the county, for transportation, fishing, and trade. European settlers arrived in the early 17th century, with the first permanent settlement established in the 1630s.

The region saw significant growth during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. The Androscoggin River played a crucial role in the development of textile mills, shoe factories, and paper mills, transforming the area into a major industrial center. Communities like Lewiston and Auburn became thriving manufacturing hubs, attracting a large immigrant population, particularly French-Canadians and Irish immigrants, who came to work in the mills.

The county faced challenges during the Great Depression in the 1930s, with the closure of many mills and factories leading to high unemployment rates. However, Androscoggin County remained resilient and diversified its economy by expanding into other industries like healthcare and higher education. The establishment of institutions like Bates College and hospitals helped to stabilize the region economically and provide new opportunities for its residents.

In recent years, Androscoggin County has experienced revitalization efforts focused on preserving its history and promoting tourism. The area boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, including the Bates Mill complex and various museums, which attract visitors interested in learning about its industrial past. Additionally, the county's natural beauty, with its rivers, parks, and lakes, has made it a popular destination for outdoor recreational activities. Overall, Androscoggin County's history is characterized by industrial growth, cultural diversity, and the ability to adapt to changing economic circumstances.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Androscoggin County, Maine.

  • 1854 - Androscoggin County is established by the Maine Legislature on March 18
  • 1873 - The county seat is moved from Auburn to Lewiston
  • 1890 - Bates College is founded in Lewiston
  • 19th century - Mills along the Androscoggin River drive the local economy
  • 1930s - The textile industry in the county starts to decline
  • Late 20th century - Lewiston and Auburn experience a period of economic restructuring
  • 2000s - The county focuses on diversifying its economy and promoting tourism