KATAHDIN (Lake Boat)
Moosehead Lake, Greenville, ME Local significance of the structure:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
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 is home to the only national monument dedicated to a writer: The Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine is dedicated to the writer and conservationist, Percival Baxter, who donated the land for the monument. Baxter is best known for his efforts to protect the wilderness areas of Maine.
In the early 19th century, Piscataquis County experienced significant growth and development. The town of Dover (now called Dover-Foxcroft) was settled in 1803 and became the county seat. Its location along the Piscataquis River made it an important center for the lumber industry, which boomed in the late 1800s. Sawmills were established, and the county's vast forests were harvested for their timber, which was used in construction and shipbuilding.
The development of railroads in the late 19th century further contributed to Piscataquis County's growth. The Bangor and Piscataquis Railroad connected the region to larger markets, facilitating the transport of timber, goods, and people. This led to the establishment of more towns and villages along the rail line, such as Milo and Brownville Junction.
However, the decline of the timber industry in the early 20th century had a significant impact on Piscataquis County. As the demand for lumber decreased and forests became depleted, many sawmills closed down and the population declined. Today, the county's economy is more diversified, with industries such as tourism, agriculture, and healthcare playing a significant role.
Overall, Piscataquis County's history reflects the interconnectedness between natural resources, settlement, and economic development. From its Indigenous roots to the rise and fall of the timber industry, the county's past continues to shape its present and future.
Piscataquis County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Piscataquis County, Maine.
- Early 1600s: Native American tribes, including the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy, inhabit the region now known as Piscataquis County.
- 1604: French explorer Samuel de Champlain visits the area and establishes friendly relations with the Native American tribes.
- Early 1700s: British settlers begin arriving in the region, leading to conflicts with Native American tribes.
- 1789: Piscataquis County is officially established as a county in the state of Maine.
- Mid-1800s: The lumber industry booms in Piscataquis County, attracting settlers looking for work.
- 1853: The town of Dover is incorporated and becomes the county seat of Piscataquis County.
- 19th century: Piscataquis County experiences significant economic growth due to the logging, agriculture, and textile industries.
- Early 1900s: The population of Piscataquis County reaches its peak as the county's industries thrive.
- 1959: The Great Northern Paper Company establishes a mill in Millinocket, providing a major economic boost to the county.
- Late 20th century: Piscataquis County, like other rural areas, faces economic decline and population loss due to changes in the timber industry and other factors.