History of Frenchville, Maine, USA

1785 Frenchville - What is today Frenchville (and Upper Frenchville) was originally part of what was called Chautauqua or Chateaugay, which included both north and south banks of the St.John where Frenchville and Baker Brook now stand.
It was at the upper reaches of the Madawaska Settlement, which was settled mostly by the descendants of Acadian refugees from about 1785 onward, then by French Canadians in the 1820s and 1830s.

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

Frenchville - Prior to 1830 it this entire area was referred to as Ste-Emilie, after the chapel, built in 1826 and served by priests who travelled from Saint Basile.

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

1830 Frenchville - From about 1830 to 1843 it was referred to as Ste-Luce, after the newly renamed chapel; the name change was apparently ordered by the Bishop of Québec.

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

1843 Frenchville - Sometime after 1843 Frenchville came to be known informally as Dionne plantation
named for Father Henri Dionne, who built there the first Catholic church in 1843 - Ste-Luce - on the site of the old chapel. Father Dionne served the parish until 1860.

From 1843 to 1869 it was known as Frenchville Plantation (although at the time of the 1850 US Census it was included as part of Madawaska Plantation and in the 1860 US census it was under Township 18, Range 5).

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

1869 Frenchville - It was incorporated Feb. 23, 1869, under the name of Dickeyville, in honor of Hon. William Dickey, of Fort Kent.

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

1871 Frenchville - The name was changed Jan. 26, 1871, [to Frenchville] to indicate the nationality of the inhabitants.

www.upperstjohn.com/ aroostook/ frenchville.htm

1886 - Frenchville
Frenchville lies on the southern bank of the St. John River, in the north-eastern part of Aroostook County, 110 miles north-east of Hoititon. It is on the stage-line from Van Buren to Fort Kent. Forinerly it was the plantation of Dionne, named for Father Dionne, who built there the first Catholic church—St. Luce. It was incorporated Feb. 23, 1869, under the name of Dickeyville, in honor of Hon. William Dickey, of Fort Kent. The name was changed Jan. 26, 1871, to indicate the nationality of the inhabitants.

The town is very irregular in form, lying on a south-eastern bend of the St. John. On the south-eastern side it rests on the northern end of Long Lake, the north-eastern of the Fish River Lakes. The principal streams are Dufour, Gagnon, Rosignol, Bourgoin, and Cyr brooks, all emptying into the St. John, and each having falls suitable for mills. Gagnon Brook has two-saw-mills and two grist-mills, and Cyr Brook a small saw-mill. There are other small saw-mills, a clothdressing mill ... Read MORE...

1916
Frenchville, a post-township (town) of Aroostook co., Me. The banking point is Caribou. Pop. in 1900, 1316.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

2023 - While it may be a quieter destination, there are several places to visit and activities to enjoy in and around Frenchville. Here's a list to help you make the most of your time in this charming town:
Pelletier Island: Enjoy the natural beauty of Pelletier Island, located on Long Lake. It's a great spot for picnics, birdwatching, and peaceful walks along the shore.

St. John River: Explore the scenic St. John River, which flows near Frenchville. Consider a leisurely drive along the riverbanks or find a peaceful spot to enjoy the views.

Historical Sites: Learn about the history of Frenchville by exploring local historical sites. Visit the Acadian Cross Monument and other landmarks that highlight the town's cultural heritage.

Outdoor Recreation: Take advantage of the outdoor recreational opportunities in the area. Whether it's hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying nature, Frenchville offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

Le Club Acadien: Check out local community events and activities at Le Club Acadien. This cultural center often hosts gatherings, celebrations, and performances that showcase the town's Acadian roots.

Frenchville Heritage Park: Visit the... Read MORE...