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History of Camden, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Camden, Maine, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Camden, Maine, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Camden
Camden: Situated along the Midcoast, Camden is one of Maine's most popular towns for visitors. Known for its charming downtown, stunning harbor views, and nearby Camden Hills State Park, the town offers a blend of outdoor adventure, shopping, and dining.
When Castine was held by the British in 1779, Camden became a rendezvous point and encampment for the Americans, who were commanded by Major George Ulmer. During a raid, the British burned a sawmill. On February 17, 1791, the Massachusetts General Court incorporated Megunticook Plantation as Camden, named after Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, a member of the British Parliament and proponent of civil liberties.
When Castine was held by the British in 1779, Camden became a rendezvous point and encampment for the Americans, who were commanded by Major George Ulmer. During a raid, the British burned a sawmill. On February 17, 1791, the Massachusetts General Court incorporated Megunticook Plantation as Camden, named after Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, a member of the British Parliament and proponent of civil liberties.
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VINTAGE CAMDEN
Camden Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Camden, Maine, USA
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View of Camden, Maine, 1891
Camden, Maine, USA
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Main St., 1907
Camden, Maine, USA
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Club House, Mt. Battie
Camden, Maine, USA
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High Street, 1915
Camden, Maine, USA
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Main St.
Camden, Maine, USA
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Main St.
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Camden, Maine, USA
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Opera House, Main St
Camden, Maine, USA
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Knox Woolen Mills
Camden, Maine, USA
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Norumbega
Camden, Maine, USA
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Camden Harbor
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to CAMDEN
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 Camden: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Camden through the years.
1839 - Camden
Camden, Maine
Waldo county. This sea-port is finely located for navigation, with two beautiful harbors, on the W. side of Penobscot bay, 10 miles N. from Thomaston, 17 S. from Belfast, and 40 E.S.E. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 2,991. This place has some navigation engaged in the coasting trade and fisheries, and considerable ship building is carried on, but the principal business is the manufacture of lime from inexhaustible quarries of marble, or lime stone. About 200,000 casks of lime is annually shipped from this place to all parts of the United States. This lime is noted for making a cement of superior quality. The Megunticook river waters a part of the town, and gives it a great water power, which might be well applied to manufacturing purposes. From a mountain in the rear of the town a beautiful prospect is presented of Penobscot bay and its numerous islands. Camden is a pleasant retreat in summer months.
Waldo county. This sea-port is finely located for navigation, with two beautiful harbors, on the W. side of Penobscot bay, 10 miles N. from Thomaston, 17 S. from Belfast, and 40 E.S.E. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 2,991. This place has some navigation engaged in the coasting trade and fisheries, and considerable ship building is carried on, but the principal business is the manufacture of lime from inexhaustible quarries of marble, or lime stone. About 200,000 casks of lime is annually shipped from this place to all parts of the United States. This lime is noted for making a cement of superior quality. The Megunticook river waters a part of the town, and gives it a great water power, which might be well applied to manufacturing purposes. From a mountain in the rear of the town a beautiful prospect is presented of Penobscot bay and its numerous islands. Camden is a pleasant retreat in summer months.
1906 - Camden
Camden, a banking post-village (and favorite sea-shore resort) and township (town) of Knox co., Me., on the W. shore of Penobscot Bay, 8 miles NNE. of Rockland and about 40 miles ESE. of Augusta. It has a ship-building industry and manufactures of felts, harness, woollen goods, etc. A large quantity of lime is exported from Camden. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2825.
Here's a list of things to do and places to visit in Camden, Maine:
Camden Hills State Park: Start your visit with a trip to Camden Hills State Park. Hike to the top of Mount Battie for panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. The park offers a network of trails suitable for various skill levels and is a fantastic spot for picnics and wildlife watching.
Camden Harbor: Stroll along the scenic harbor, lined with sailboats and fishing boats. You can enjoy the lively waterfront atmosphere, watch boats coming and going, and take in the stunning views. There are benches and parks where you can sit and relax while enjoying the maritime scenery.
Camden Public Library: This beautiful library isn't just for bookworms. Its architecture is impressive, and you can explore the grounds, which include a lovely amphitheater and gardens. The library often hosts art exhibitions and events, so check their schedule for any ongoing activities.
Windjammer Cruises: Camden is known as the "Windjammer Capital of the World." You can take a sailing excursion...
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Camden Harbor: Stroll along the scenic harbor, lined with sailboats and fishing boats. You can enjoy the lively waterfront atmosphere, watch boats coming and going, and take in the stunning views. There are benches and parks where you can sit and relax while enjoying the maritime scenery.
Camden Public Library: This beautiful library isn't just for bookworms. Its architecture is impressive, and you can explore the grounds, which include a lovely amphitheater and gardens. The library often hosts art exhibitions and events, so check their schedule for any ongoing activities.
Windjammer Cruises: Camden is known as the "Windjammer Capital of the World." You can take a sailing excursion...
GENEALOGY IN CAMDEN
Discover YOUR Roots: Camden Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Camden, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 9 ancestors who were born or died in Camden.
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Updated: 2/6/2025 2:20:34 PM
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