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History of Dresden, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Dresden, Maine, USA
Explore Dresden, 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 Dresden Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
The town was originally settled in 1752 under the name Frankfort by French and German Huguenots, who were part of the first wave of French-speaking immigrants to arrive in Maine.The town was incorporated as Pownalborough in 1760, when Lincoln County was created in the Maine District of Massachusetts.
When the present territory was incorporated in 1794, Lincoln County Probate Judge Jonathan Bowman chose Dresden as the new name of the town because he liked the sound of it.
Explore even more about Dresden, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Dresden Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to DRESDEN

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 Dresden: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Dresden
Dresden, Maine
Lincoln county. On the E. bank of Kennebec river, near the head of Swan Island, 9 miles N.W. from Wiscasset, 14 S. from Augusta, and 59 N.E. from Portland. This is a large agricultural township with some trade on the river. Previous to the division of the county, in 1789, Dresden was the shire town or place where all the courts in Maine were holden, E. of Kennebec river. Dresden was incorporated as a town in 1794. Population, 1837, 1,570.
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
Dresden, Maine
Lincoln county. On the E. bank of Kennebec river, near the head of Swan Island, 9 miles N.W. from Wiscasset, 14 S. from Augusta, and 59 N.E. from Portland. This is a large agricultural township with some trade on the river. Previous to the division of the county, in 1789, Dresden was the shire town or place where all the courts in Maine were holden, E. of Kennebec river. Dresden was incorporated as a town in 1794. Population, 1837, 1,570.
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 - Dresden
Dresden, a post-township (town) of Lincoln co., Me., about 16 miles S. of Augusta, is bounded on the W. by the Kennebec River. Pop. in 1900, 882.
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
Dresden, a post-township (town) of Lincoln co., Me., about 16 miles S. of Augusta, is bounded on the W. by the Kennebec River. Pop. in 1900, 882.
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 Dresden, Maine:
Pownalborough Court House: This historic courthouse, built in 1761, is one of the oldest in New England. It's a significant piece of American history, as it was once used for sessions of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court when Maine was still part of Massachusetts. You can take guided tours to learn about its fascinating past.
Kennebec River: The Kennebec River is a central feature of Dresden's landscape. Enjoy scenic drives along the riverbank, go fishing, or take a peaceful kayak trip to explore the tranquil waters and observe the local wildlife.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Dresden and the surrounding areas offer several hiking and nature trails. The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust maintains a network of trails, including the Hidden Valley Nature Center in nearby Jefferson, where you can enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Swan Island: Accessible by a ferry ride, Swan Island, also known as Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area, offers fantastic... Read MORE...
Pownalborough Court House: This historic courthouse, built in 1761, is one of the oldest in New England. It's a significant piece of American history, as it was once used for sessions of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court when Maine was still part of Massachusetts. You can take guided tours to learn about its fascinating past.
Kennebec River: The Kennebec River is a central feature of Dresden's landscape. Enjoy scenic drives along the riverbank, go fishing, or take a peaceful kayak trip to explore the tranquil waters and observe the local wildlife.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Dresden and the surrounding areas offer several hiking and nature trails. The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust maintains a network of trails, including the Hidden Valley Nature Center in nearby Jefferson, where you can enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Swan Island: Accessible by a ferry ride, Swan Island, also known as Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area, offers fantastic... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Dresden Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Dresden, Maine, USA
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Dresden, Maine, USA
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