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Journey back in time to Castine, Maine, USA

Explore Castine, 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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Castine, Maine, USA - Castine, Maine, USA - Castine Harbor, Me., Goose Falls

Castine: A historic town located in Hancock County, Castine is known for its beautiful waterfront, historic homes, and maritime heritage. It is home to the Maine Maritime Academy and offers various activities such as sailing, kayaking, and exploring nearby coastal islands.

Castine was first settled in 1613. The town was once capital of Acadia and became the strongest British fortress in New England, and the last to be surrendered at the close of the War of 1812. familysearch.org



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Castine Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Castine, Maine, USA - Castine Harbor, Me., Goose Falls
Castine, Maine, USA

Postcard
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Castine Harbor, Me., Goose Falls
Castine, Maine, USA - Wharf & Steamer Anna Belle
Castine, Maine, USA

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Wharf & Steamer Anna Belle
Castine, Maine, USA - Grocery Store
Castine, Maine, USA

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Grocery Store
Castine, Maine, USA - Main St., 1923
Castine, Maine, USA

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Main St., 1923
Castine, Maine, USA - Castine Community Hospital
Castine, Maine, USA

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Castine Community Hospital

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

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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 Castine: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Castine
Castine, Maine
Hancock county. Castine derived its name from a French baron of that name, who resided here upwards of twenty years after 1667. This peninsula, jutting out into Belfast bay, at the mouth of Penobscot river, was formerly called "Major Biguyduce," pronounced, Bagaduce. The peninsula embraces 2,500 acres of land, and was first settled by the English, in 1760. The British occupied this place in both of the wars with the U.S. It was the shire, or chief town, of the county from 1789 to 1838, when the courts were removed to Ellsworth. Castine possesses an excellent maritime position, but its trade from the country is limited, being cut off by the more inland towns. Its trade, however, is considerable. The lumber and coasting trade, with the fisheries, give active employment to its people. 78 miles E. from Augusta and about 25 S.W. from Ellsworth. Population, 1830, 1,155; 1837, 1,168.
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
1906 - Castine
Castine, a post-village, summer-resort, and port of entry of Hancock co., Me., is in Castine township (town), on the E. side of Penobscot Bay, about 33 miles below Bangor. It has a good harbor for large ships, and manufactures of line, cordage, and twine. Here is the Eastern State Normal School. The banking point is Ellsworth. Pop. of the town in 1900, 925.
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 things to do and places to visit in Castine:
Main Street Stroll: Begin your visit by taking a leisurely stroll along Castine's Main Street. Admire the well-preserved historic buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The architecture and quaint atmosphere make for a delightful walk.

Castine Historical Society: Visit the Castine Historical Society to delve into the town's rich history. The society operates the Castine Historical Museum, where you can explore exhibits and artifacts related to Castine's maritime heritage, Native American history, and colonial past.

Fort George and Fort Madison: Castine is home to two historic forts, Fort George and Fort Madison, which played significant roles in American history. Fort George dates back to the late 1700s and offers guided tours that provide insight into its military history and strategic importance.

Wadsworth Cove Beach: Relax on the sandy shores of Wadsworth Cove Beach, a peaceful spot with scenic views of Penobscot Bay. It's an excellent place for ... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Castine Ancestry

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

We currently have information about 8 ancestors who were born or died in Castine.

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Updated: 2/6/2025 2:22:40 PM