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History of Athens, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Athens, Maine, USA
Explore Athens, Maine, USA! Uncover its rich history and discover the stories of the people who once called it home. Dive into old newspaper articles, vintage pictures, postcards, and genealogy to learn more about this fascinating town.Do You Have Athens Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Athens: Located in Somerset County, Athens is a small town surrounded by lakes and forests. It is known for its rural charm, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing in the surrounding natural areas.
The first settlement of Athens, Maine, was founded by John Jones in 1804. The primary business in town at that time was farming, with agriculture being the mainstay of the local economy. Over time, Athens grew into a small, close-knit community, relying on farming and other local industries for its livelihood.
Settled by Revolutionary War soldiers, this town in Somerset County was, incorporated on March 7, 1804. In 1821 it annexed land from Hartland, and later from Brighton in 1838 and 1862. maineanencyclopedia.com
Explore even more about Athens, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Athens Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to ATHENS

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.
Discover Athens: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Athens
Athens, Maine
Somerset county. This town was incorporated in 1803. Population, 1837, 1,424. It is about 18 miles N.N.E. from Norridgewock, 114 N.N.E. from Portland, and 45 N. from Augusta. It is watered by a tributary of Kennebec river.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
Athens, Maine
Somerset county. This town was incorporated in 1803. Population, 1837, 1,424. It is about 18 miles N.N.E. from Norridgewock, 114 N.N.E. from Portland, and 45 N. from Augusta. It is watered by a tributary of Kennebec river.
The New England Gazetteer containing descriptions of all the states, counties and towns in New England: also descriptions of the principal mountains, rivers lakes, capes, bays, harbors, islands and fashionable resorts within that territory. By John Hayward, author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, &c. &c. Boston: John Hayward. Boyd & White, Concord, N.H. 1839
1854 - Athens
Athens, a post-township of Somerset county, Maine, 45 miles N. of Augusta, intersected by a branch of the Kennebec river. Population. 1460.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
Athens, a post-township of Somerset county, Maine, 45 miles N. of Augusta, intersected by a branch of the Kennebec river. Population. 1460.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.
1895 - Athens
Athens, a post-hamlet of Somerset co., Me., in Athens township, about 50 miles N. of Augusta, on an affluent of the Kennebec River. It has a church and an academy. The township has several lumber-mills. Pop. in 1890, 1072.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
Athens, a post-hamlet of Somerset co., Me., in Athens township, about 50 miles N. of Augusta, on an affluent of the Kennebec River. It has a church and an academy. The township has several lumber-mills. Pop. in 1890, 1072.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott
1916
Athens, a post-hamlet of Somerset co., Me., in Athens township (town), about 50 miles N. of Augusta, on an affluent of the Kennebec River. Pop. of the town in 1900, 896.
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
Athens, a post-hamlet of Somerset co., Me., in Athens township (town), about 50 miles N. of Augusta, on an affluent of the Kennebec River. Pop. of the town in 1900, 896.
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
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Athens:
Athens Historical Society and Museum:
Start your journey by delving into the town's history. The Historical Society and Museum could give you insights into the roots of Athens, displaying artifacts, photos, and stories that reflect its past.
Scenic Drive through Somerset County:
Take a scenic drive through Somerset County. The rolling hills and rural landscapes make for a picturesque journey, especially during fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Fishing at Wyman Lake:
If you're a fishing enthusiast, Wyman Lake is the place to be. It's not just about catching fish; the lake is surrounded by serene nature, offering a peaceful retreat.
Hiking in Moose River Valley:
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the Moose River Valley. There are trails for various skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maine wilderness.
Photography at Pleasant Pond:
Capture the tranquility of Pleasant Pond, especially during sunrise or sunset. The play of... Read MORE...
Athens Historical Society and Museum:
Start your journey by delving into the town's history. The Historical Society and Museum could give you insights into the roots of Athens, displaying artifacts, photos, and stories that reflect its past.
Scenic Drive through Somerset County:
Take a scenic drive through Somerset County. The rolling hills and rural landscapes make for a picturesque journey, especially during fall when the foliage is at its peak.
Fishing at Wyman Lake:
If you're a fishing enthusiast, Wyman Lake is the place to be. It's not just about catching fish; the lake is surrounded by serene nature, offering a peaceful retreat.
Hiking in Moose River Valley:
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the Moose River Valley. There are trails for various skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maine wilderness.
Photography at Pleasant Pond:
Capture the tranquility of Pleasant Pond, especially during sunrise or sunset. The play of... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Athens Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Athens, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 3 ancestors who were born or died in Athens.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Athens, Maine, USA
We currently have information about ancestors who were married in Athens.View Them Now
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