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History of Durham, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Durham, Maine, USA
Explore Durham, 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 Durham Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
Durham was named after County Durham, England, the ancestral home of the town's first settler. It was previously known as Royallsborough, named after Isaac Royall Jr. wikipediaDurham is situated in southern Maine, bordered by the towns of Freeport to the south, Pownal to the west, New Gloucester to the north, and Lisbon to the east. It's part of the Portland-South Portland-Biddeford Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Durham was first settled in the late 17th century and was incorporated as a town in 1789. Its early history is closely tied to agriculture, with farming being a central economic activity. The town was named after William Henry Cavendish-Bentinck, 3rd Duke of Portland, whose family name was Cavendish-Bentinck. The name "Durham" was chosen to honor his family's connection to County Durham in England.
The town of Durham is known for its scenic landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and the winding Androscoggin River that flows through the area. These natural features contribute to the town's rural charm and offer recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the outdoors.
Explore even more about Durham, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Durham Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to DURHAM
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 Durham: History, News, Travel, and Stories
1839 - Durham
Durham, Maine
Cumberland county. Located on the S. side of Androscoggin river, and united with Lisbon by a bridge. This is a township of good land, and farming is the principal occupation of its inhabitants. Durham lies 25 miles N. from Portland, and 31 S.W. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 1,832. Incorporated, 1789.
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
Durham, Maine
Cumberland county. Located on the S. side of Androscoggin river, and united with Lisbon by a bridge. This is a township of good land, and farming is the principal occupation of its inhabitants. Durham lies 25 miles N. from Portland, and 31 S.W. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 1,832. Incorporated, 1789.
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 - Durham
Durham, a post-village of Androscoggin co., Me., in Durham township (town) on the Androscoggin River, about 10 miles below Lewiston. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1230.
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
Durham, a post-village of Androscoggin co., Me., in Durham township (town) on the Androscoggin River, about 10 miles below Lewiston. Pop. of the town in 1900, 1230.
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 Durham, Maine:
Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park: This coastal state park is a must-visit when in Durham. It features miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of Casco Bay. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Hike and Explore: Durham and the surrounding area offer numerous hiking opportunities. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you can explore trails like the Bradbury Mountain State Park, which is known for its scenic views, or the Auburn Riverwalk for a peaceful riverside walk.
Bradbury Mountain State Park: Located just a short drive from Durham, this state park is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The summit of Bradbury Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.
Pineland Farms: This vast working farm in nearby New Gloucester offers a range of activities... Read MORE...
Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park: This coastal state park is a must-visit when in Durham. It features miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and offer stunning views of Casco Bay. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Hike and Explore: Durham and the surrounding area offer numerous hiking opportunities. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, you can explore trails like the Bradbury Mountain State Park, which is known for its scenic views, or the Auburn Riverwalk for a peaceful riverside walk.
Bradbury Mountain State Park: Located just a short drive from Durham, this state park is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking. The summit of Bradbury Mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.
Pineland Farms: This vast working farm in nearby New Gloucester offers a range of activities... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Durham Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Durham, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 4 ancestors who were born or died in Durham.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Durham, Maine, USA
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