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Journey back in time to Dexter, Maine, USA

Explore Dexter, 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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Dexter, Maine, USA - Dexter, Maine, USA - Exchange Hotel, 1906

Dexter was settled beginning in 1801 by Ebenezer Small, David Smith, and others from New Hampshire, and was originally called Elkinstown. When incorporated as a town in 1816, it named itself after Judge Samuel Dexter, who was then running for governor of Massachusetts (of which Maine was still a part).



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Dexter Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Dexter, Maine, USA - Exchange Hotel, 1906
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Exchange Hotel, 1906
Dexter, Maine, USA - Corner of Pleasant and Main Streets, 1909
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Corner of Pleasant and Main Streets, 1909
Dexter, Maine, USA - Soldiers' Monument and Baptist Church
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Soldiers' Monument and Baptist Church
Dexter, Maine, USA - Dexter, Maine. Dumbarton Mills. 1913
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Dexter, Maine. Dumbarton Mills. 1913
Dexter, Maine, USA - Main St., Dexter, Me., 1919
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Main St., Dexter, Me., 1919
Dexter, Maine, USA - Fay & Scotts Machine Shops
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Fay & Scotts Machine Shops
Dexter, Maine, USA - Methodist Church
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Methodist Church
Dexter, Maine, USA - Woolen Mill
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Woolen Mill
Dexter, Maine, USA - Downtown Dexter, 1938
Dexter, Maine, USA

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Downtown Dexter, 1938

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

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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 Dexter: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Dexter
Dexter, Maine
Penobscot county. This town was first settled in 1801. Incorporated, 1815. It lies 67 miles N.E. from Augusta and 35 N.W. from Bangor. Population, 1837, 1,401. Dexter is a valuable township of land. The farmers reap a rich reward for their labors. In 1837, 7000 bushels of wheat was raised. In this town is a pond covering 500 acres, at the outlet of which are mills and a beautiful village.
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 - Dexter
Dexter, a banking post-village of Penobscot co., Me., in Dexter township (town), on a small lake and on the Maine Central R., 40 miles WNW. of Bangor. It has woollen-mills, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2941.
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 Dexter, Maine:
Dexter Historical Society: Start your exploration of Dexter by visiting the Dexter Historical Society. This small but informative museum showcases the town's history, including its industrial past and the significance of the railroad. You'll find artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that provide insight into Dexter's heritage.

Lake Wassookeag: This 1,128-acre lake is one of the highlights of Dexter. It's perfect for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. There are public access points and a boat launch, making it easy to enjoy the lake's serene beauty.

Boating and Fishing: Lake Wassookeag is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, you can try your hand at catching a variety of fish, including bass and trout. Bring your own boat or rent one locally for a day on the water.

Outdoor Recreation: The Dexter area offers great opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the nearby forests... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Dexter Ancestry

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

We currently have information about 9 ancestors who were born or died in Dexter.

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Ancestors Who Were Married in Dexter, Maine, USA

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Updated: 3/11/2026 8:44:30 PM