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Flag associated with Canaan, Maine, USA History of Canaan, Maine, USA

Journey back in time to Canaan, Maine, USA

Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Canaan, Maine, USA.

ABOUT THE PLACE

About Canaan

Canaan, Maine, USA - Canaan, Maine, USA - Canaan, Me. View of Main St. looking East.
Canaan: Canaan is a rural town in Somerset County known for its agricultural community and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s an ideal location for those seeking peace and tranquility while being able to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Canaan was incorporated on June 18, 1788, though significant settlement began in 1803 when mills were erected on Wesserunset Stream.

Variously known as Heywoodstown (in honor of the first settler Peter Heywood), Howard’s Town, plantation of Wesserunset, and Old Canaan, it once included the area now encompassing the town of Skowhegan. maineanencyclopedia.com
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VINTAGE CANAAN

Canaan Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Canaan, Maine, USA - Canaan, Me. View of Main St. looking East.
Canaan, Maine, USA
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Canaan, Me. View of Main St. looking East.
Canaan, Maine, USA - Main St, Looking West
Canaan, Maine, USA
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Main St, Looking West
Canaan, Maine, USA - Main Street
Canaan, Maine, USA
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Main Street
Canaan, Maine, USA - Ralph's Inn
Canaan, Maine, USA
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Ralph's Inn
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to CANAAN

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I Love MAINE Mug – Lobster Rolls, Blueberries & Whoopie Pies Coffee Cup

Celebrate the flavors and charm of Maine with this vibrant ceramic mug! Featuring iconic treats—lobster rolls, juicy blueberries, and classic whoopie pies—plus the “I Love Maine” slogan, it’s perfect for locals, state lovers, and food enthusiasts alike.

MAINE ROOTS - I'm from MAINE! Ceramic Mug - Celebrating Moose, Lobster, and Blueberries

Start your day with a touch of Maine magic! Our Maine-inspired ceramic mug features the charming caption, "I'm from Maine! That explains a lot about my love for moose, lobster and blueberries."

MAINE Roots - Genealogy-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug Gift Idea

Celebrate your deep New England heritage with our "Maine Roots" Genealogy-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug. Whether you're sipping your morning brew while tracing your family tree or reminiscing about summers on the Maine coast, this mug is the perfect companion for your journey through the branches of your ancestry.
LOCAL HISTORY

Discover Canaan: History, News, Travel, and Stories

Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Canaan through the years.

1839 - Canaan
Canaan, Maine
Somerset county. This town was first settled in 1774, and incorporated in 1788. It formerly embraced the territory of Skowhegan and Bloomfield. It is a good farming town, and produced, in 1837, 5,444 bushels of wheat. It lies on the east side of Kennebec river, 13 miles E. from Norridgewock and 34 N. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 1,347.
1886 - Canaan
Canaan lies in the southern part of Somerset County, and is bounded by Clinton, in Kennebec County, on the south. On the west is Skowhegan; north, Hartland; east, Pittsfield; all Somerset towns. Canaan is about 10 miles long, north and south, and 4 wide. Its area is 15,891 acres. The surface is generally rough. The northeastern part is occupied by an extensive bog; the north-western, by pine plains. The chief eminences are Goodwin and Chase hills and Barnes’s Ledge, each about 600 feet in height. Sibley, Long and Round are the principal sheets of water. The first lies across the eastern border, and is two miles long by one wide. Lond Pond lies on the western line, and is one and a half miles long by one wide. The water surface of the town is about 500 acres. The outcropping rock is principally granitic. The soil is a clayey loam, and yields excellent crops of hay and potatoes. The town has four saw-mills manufacturing long and short lumber, and one grist-mill.. Canaan village, on the...
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1895 - Canaan
Canaan, a post-village of Somerset co., Me., in Canaan township, about 40 miles W. of Bangor. It has a church and several saw-mills. Pop. of the township, 1472.
Canaan, Maine, may not be the biggest town, but it definitely has its charms and plenty of things to see and do. Here's a mix of local favorites and hidden gems that you might want to check out:
Moxie Falls:
Start your adventure with a visit to Moxie Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New England. The hike to the falls is relatively easy, and the view is absolutely breathtaking. It's a great spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Lake George Regional Park:
If you're into outdoor activities, head over to Lake George Regional Park. You can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The serene lake and surrounding woods provide a perfect setting for a peaceful day out.

Moxie Outdoor Adventures:
For those seeking a bit more excitement, Moxie Outdoor Adventures offers whitewater rafting on the Kennebec River. It's an exhilarating experience and a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of the Maine wilderness.

Eaton Mountain Ski Area:
If your visit is during the winter months, don't miss the chance to hit the slopes at Eaton Mountain Ski Area. It's a family-friendly ski spot with slopes for all skill levels.

Lakewood Theater:
For a dose of...
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GENEALOGY IN CANAAN

Discover YOUR Roots: Canaan Ancestry

Explore ancestors connected to Canaan through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.

BIRTHS & DEATHS

Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Canaan, Maine, USA

We currently have information about 25 ancestors who were born or died in Canaan.

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MARRIAGES

Ancestors Who Were Married in Canaan, Maine, USA

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Updated: 3/11/2026 8:46:03 PM
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