Lord Block
379 Lisbon St., Lewiston, METhe domestic scale of this simple, Greek Revival-style, brick structure and the substantial granite post and lintel storefront contribute to the depiction of Lisbon Street's early commercial character.
The City Directory of 1864 lists Lord and Jones as provisions dealers on Lisbon Street (no address specified). In 1872 the directory lists James C. and Rufus Lord as proprietors of a store selling provisions at the corner of Lisbon and Cedar. It may be concluded that Lord's was one of the early businesses at the south end of Lisbon Street and was likely encouraged by the mill proprietors who sought to establish commercial activity in proximity to the mills. The success of James Lord's store is indicated by the later construction of his residence at 497 Main Street, presently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Construction of the building followed the purchase of the property by James G. Lord in 1865. Lord obtained the lot from the Franklin Company which restricted development to structures constructed of masonry or metal and at least two stories high.
Local significance of the building:
The City Directory of 1864 lists Lord and Jones as provisions dealers on Lisbon Street (no address specified). In 1872 the directory lists James C. and Rufus Lord as proprietors of a store selling provisions at the corner of Lisbon and Cedar. It may be concluded that Lord's was one of the early businesses at the south end of Lisbon Street and was likely encouraged by the mill proprietors who sought to establish commercial activity in proximity to the mills. The success of James Lord's store is indicated by the later construction of his residence at 497 Main Street, presently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Construction of the building followed the purchase of the property by James G. Lord in 1865. Lord obtained the lot from the Franklin Company which restricted development to structures constructed of masonry or metal and at least two stories high.
Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
About National Register Listings
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.
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Maine is home to some unique geographical features: Maine is home to a number of unique geographical features, including Acadia National Park, which has the tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast, and the "Old Sow" whirlpool, which is one of the largest tidal whirlpools in the world. Maine also has over 5,000 miles of coastline and 6,000 lakes and ponds.
About Androscoggin County
Androscoggin County Timeline
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.
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.
Androscoggin County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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