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flag  History of Wiscasset, Maine, USA

Journey back in time to Wiscasset, Maine, USA

(Pownalborough)

Explore Wiscasset, 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.

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Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Creamery and Powder House

Wiscasset: Located in Lincoln County, Wiscasset is a historic coastal town known as the “Prettiest Village in Maine.” It’s famous for its antique shops, historic sites, and waterfront charm.

Wiscasset was incorporated on February 13, 1760 as the town of Pownalborough from the former Frankfort Plantation.

In 1605, explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived in Wiscasset and met with Native Americans. When the town was established, the Pownalborough Courthouse (in Dresden, once a part of Wiscasset) was built to serve the area. The fifteenth town chartered in Maine, it was named for Massachusetts Governor Thomas Pownall.

The name was changed to its Indian designation, Wiscasset, on June 10, 1802. maineanencyclopedia.com



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Wiscasset Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Creamery and Powder House
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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Creamery and Powder House
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - The Jail
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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The Jail
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Middle St.
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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Middle St.
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Long Bridge looking West
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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Long Bridge looking West
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - Public Library and Women's Club
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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Public Library and Women's Club
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - The New Bridge
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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The New Bridge
Wiscasset, Maine, USA - First Congregational Church
Wiscasset, Maine, USA

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First Congregational Church

Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to WISCASSET

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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.

Discover Wiscasset: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Wiscasset
Wiscasset, Maine
Lincoln county. Shire town. Wiscasset is a port of entry, situated on the west side of Sheepscot river, 20 miles from the sea; 24 miles S.S.E. from Augusta, 42 N.E. from Portland, and 10 N.E. from Bath. It was incorporated in 1760. Population, 1837, 2,246.

Wiscasset contains a noble harbor for vessels of the largest class; it is easy of access and seldom obstructed by ice. For many years previous to the commencement of the commercial restrictions, in 1807, Wiscasset was one of the most active and flourishing sea ports in Maine. During the disastrous period which followed, Wiscasset suffered severely, in common with all towns largely engaged in navigation.

Since the termination of the war the town has been slowly but safely progressing in wealth and prosperity. In addition to its commerce in lumber and ship building, this place is largely and profitably engaged in the fishery, for which pursuit it is admirably located. The tonnage of this district, in 1837, was... Read MORE...

1854 - Wiscasset
Wiscassett, a post-town, port of entry, and one of the capitals of Lincoln co., Maine, on the right bank of Sheepscot river, about 12 miles from the ocean, and 45 miles E. N.E. from Portland. The inhabitants are extensively engaged in foreign commerce, the coast trade, and the fisheries, the river affording excellent facilities, being navigable for the largest vessels, and seldom obstructed with ice... Besides the county buildings, the town contains several churches, a bank, and 10 or 12 stores. Population of the township, 2343
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.
1906 - Wiscasset
Wiscasset, a banking post-village, port of entry, and capital of Lincoln co., Me., in Wiscasset township (town), on the right bank of the Sheepscott River and on the Maine Central and the Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Rs., 11 miles ENE. of Bath. It has a good harbor, which is accessible at all seasons. Wiscasset is noted for its beautiful scenery and is frequented as a watering-place. It has some interest in fisheries and in boat-building. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1273.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906
Here's a list of places to go and things to do in and around Wiscasset:
Wiscasset Village: Start your visit with a stroll through Wiscasset's historic village. You'll find well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings lining the streets. The village has a lovely, small-town feel, perfect for leisurely walks and window shopping.

Red's Eats: If you're a fan of seafood, you can't miss Red's Eats, a local institution famous for its lobster rolls. Be prepared for a line, but it's well worth the wait. Their lobster rolls are loaded with fresh, tender lobster meat.

Treat Yourself to Pie: Wiscasset is home to some fantastic pie shops, including Sarah's Cafe and Frost Gully. Whether you're into fruit pies, cream pies, or savory pot pies, you'll find something delightful to satisfy your sweet or savory tooth.

Wiscasset Marketplace: This unique shopping destination features a variety of artisan shops and boutiques where you can find everything from handmade crafts to antiques. It's an excellent place to pick up souvenirs or unique gifts.

Castle Tucker:... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Wiscasset Ancestry

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

We currently have information about 31 ancestors who were born or died in Wiscasset.

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Updated: 2/6/2025 5:04:35 PM