National Register Listing

Great Fire of 1911 Historic District

Harlow, Center, Park, State, York, and Central Sts., Bangor, ME
Local significance of the district:
Community Planning And Development; Landscape Architecture; Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1984.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Maine.
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.