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flag  History of Houlton, Maine, USA

Journey back in time to Houlton, Maine, USA

Explore Houlton, 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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Houlton, Maine, USA - Houlton, Maine, USA - Main Street, 1905

Houlton: Located in Aroostook County, Houlton is known as the "Shire Town of Aroostook" and serves as a cultural and commercial hub for the region. The town offers a mix of historic charm, outdoor activities, and proximity to the Canadian border, making it a key entry point for travelers.

Decades after the American Revolutionary War, Anglo-American pioneers Aaron Putnam and Joseph Houlton started a village. They named it for Houlton, who had moved to Maine in 1807 from the more populated part of Massachusetts.

Houlton was incorporated on March 8, 1831.



Explore even more about Houlton, Maine, USA. Keep reading!



Houlton Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

Houlton, Maine, USA - Main Street, 1905
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Main Street, 1905
Houlton, Maine, USA - Exchange Hotel
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Exchange Hotel
Houlton, Maine, USA - Main St
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Main St
Houlton, Maine, USA - Main Street
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Main Street
Houlton, Maine, USA - Main Street, 1915
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Main Street, 1915
Houlton, Maine, USA - Unloading Potatoes, 1915
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Unloading Potatoes, 1915
Houlton, Maine, USA - Northland Hotel
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Northland Hotel
Houlton, Maine, USA - Madigan Memorial Hospital
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Madigan Memorial Hospital
Houlton, Maine, USA - Market Square
Houlton, Maine, USA

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Market Square
Houlton, Maine, USA - County Building from Market Square, Houlton, Maine
Houlton, Maine, USA

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County Building from Market Square, Houlton, Maine

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

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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 Houlton: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Houlton
Houlton, Maine
Washington county. This town is situated on the east line of the state and of the United States, on the border of the Province of New Brunswick. It lies 120 miles N.N.E. from Bangor, and about 75 W.N.W. from Frederickton, the capital of New Brunswick. The town was first settled in 1808, and for twenty years it was entirely cut off from all communication with the western part of the state by a dense wilderness of nearly 100 miles in extent.

In 1829, a military post, the "Hancock Barracks," was established here by the U.S. government, and in 1834 the military and state roads between Bangor and Houlton were completed and opened for travel. The great thoroughfare between the United States and the British Province of New Brunswick is through this town. The roads between Bangor and Houlton are excellent: stages pass and repass from Bangor through Houlton to Frederickton, three times a week. Frederickton is 80 miles N.N.W. from St. Johns. A good road between Houlton and... Read MORE...

1906 - Houlton
Houlton, a post-village, port of entry, and capital of Aroostook co., Me., in Houlton township (town), on the Bangor and Aroostook and the Canadian Pacific Rs., 12 miles W. of Woodstock, New Brunswick. It has an iron-foundry, machine-shop, grist and woollen-mills, starch factories, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 4686.
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 are the best places to visit and things to do in and around Houlton, Maine:
1. Houlton Historic District:
Start your visit by exploring the Houlton Historic District. This area is home to a collection of well-preserved 19th-century buildings that offer a glimpse into the town's past. You can take a leisurely stroll along the streets and admire the beautiful architecture. Be sure to check out the Aroostook County Courthouse, a stunning neoclassical building that's a true local landmark.

2. Houlton International Airport:
While it might seem unusual to suggest visiting an airport, Houlton International Airport has a unique feature that draws aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. The airport is home to a decommissioned World War II-era military base known as the Houlton Army Air Base. You can visit the Military Heritage Museum, which is located on the airport grounds, to learn about the base's history and its role during the war.

3. Aroostook State Park:
For those who love the outdoors, Aroostook State Park is a must-visit. Located just a short drive... Read MORE...

Discover YOUR Roots: Houlton Ancestry

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

We currently have information about 13 ancestors who were born or died in Houlton.

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Ancestors Who Were Married in Houlton, Maine, USA

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Updated: 3/11/2026 8:50:19 PM