Mason, Dr. Moses, House
a.k.a. Ada Durrell House
Broad St., Bethel, ME Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
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 the first state to adopt Prohibition: Maine was the first state to adopt Prohibition in 1851, almost 70 years before the rest of the country followed suit. However, it was also one of the first states to repeal Prohibition, doing so in 1934.
The county was officially incorporated in 1805 and named after the prestigious University of Oxford in England. The early settlers primarily relied on agriculture, logging, and the abundance of natural resources, such as wood and minerals found in the region. The towns of Paris, Norway, and Fryeburg, among others, flourished during this time as economic centers.
One significant event in Oxford County's history occurred during the 19th century when the region experienced a boom in the textile industry. Several textile mills were established along the Androscoggin River, attracting a large number of immigrants, particularly from Ireland and Quebec, who sought employment in the mills. The textile industry played a crucial role in the county's economy for many years.
In the 20th century, Oxford County's economy diversified with the growth of tourism as a major industry. The county's beautiful landscapes, including the popular ski resorts in the towns of Bethel and Newry, attracted visitors from near and far. In addition to tourism, other industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education became significant contributors to the county's economy.
Today, Oxford County continues to thrive with a mix of rural charm and economic growth. Its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and diverse economy make it an appealing destination for residents and tourists alike. The county's commitment to preserving its heritage can be seen in the numerous museums, historic sites, and community events that celebrate its past.
Oxford County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Oxford County, Maine.
- 1791 - Oxford County is established as a part of Massachusetts
- 1820 - Maine becomes a separate state, and Oxford County becomes a part of Maine
- 1830 - The town of Norway is incorporated
- 1836 - The town of Oxford is incorporated
- 1862 - Oxford County is reduced in size when Androscoggin County is created
- 1885 - The town of Bethel is incorporated
- 1895 - The town of Fryeburg is incorporated
- 1968 - The town of Paris becomes the county seat
- 1983 - The towns of Brownfield, Denmark, Hiram, Lovell, Porter, and Stoneham are incorporated
- 2005 - The town of Roxbury merges with Byron to form the unorganized territory of Roxbury