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Flag associated with Medford, Maine, USA (Kilmarnock) History of Medford, Maine, USA

Journey back in time to Medford, Maine, USA

Also known as(Kilmarnock)

Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Medford, Maine, USA.

ABOUT THE PLACE

About Medford

Medford: Situated in Piscataquis County, Medford is a small, rural town surrounded by forests and rivers. It’s known for its quiet lifestyle and access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling.

In 1808 James Grover was the first white settler in what is now Medford. In 1820, the state opened a road from the Piscataquis River, which helped increase settlement.

In 1820, John Parker Boyd, owner of the eastern half of the town, erected a combination sawmill and shingle mill on the Piscataquis River. In 1824 the town incorporated as Kilmarnock, the name chosen by Boyd.

An 1825 fire destroyed over three-quarters of the buildings in town, as well as the large stand of pine trees used to supply the sawmill and shingle mill. The mill was saved, but later closed because the burning of the nearby trees had deprived the business of a steady supply of wood.

The inhabitants of Kilmarnock petitioned to change the town's name to Medford in 1856.
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VINTAGE MEDFORD

Medford Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards

GENEALOGY SHOP

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FEATURED GIFTS

Gifts Inspired by MEDFORD

MAINE Roots - Genealogy-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug Gift Idea

MAINE Roots - Genealogy-Themed Ceramic Coffee Mug Gift Idea

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BOOKS & RESOURCES

Books & Genealogy Resources Related to MEDFORD

Native American Directory: Vital Records of Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York and Wisconsin
Old-Time New England Cookbook
Maine Roads to Gettysburg: How Joshua Chamberlain, Oliver Howard, and 4,000 Men from the Pine Tree State Helped Win the Civil War's Bloodiest Battle
The Lost Kitchen: Recipes and a Good Life Found in Freedom, Maine: A Cookbook
Little Local Maine Cookbook
American Cookery: The Historic Colonial Cookbook First Published in 1796
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LOCAL HISTORY

Discover Medford: History, News, Travel, and Stories

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1839 - Kilmarnock
Kilmarnock, Maine
Piscataquis county. This town is well watered by Piscataquis river and the outlet of Scootum lake. It lies 103 miles N.E. from Augusta and 22 N.N.E. from Dover. Incorporated, 1824. Population, 1830, 138: 1837, 313.
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 - Medford
Medford, a post-township (town) and hamlet of Piscataquis co., Me., about 36 miles N. of Bangor. The town is intersected by the Piscataquis River. Pop. in 1900, 282.
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 some of the best places to visit and things to do in Medford, Maine:
Sebec Lake:
Sebec Lake is the crown jewel of Medford and a paradise for water lovers. This crystal-clear lake spans over 6,800 acres and offers a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing. You can rent a canoe or kayak at one of the local outfitters or just relax on the sandy beaches. Don't forget to bring a picnic and soak in the stunning views.

Borestone Mountain:
For hikers and nature enthusiasts, a visit to Borestone Mountain Sanctuary is a must. The sanctuary features a network of trails, including the popular hike to the summit of Borestone Mountain. The reward for your efforts is breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and three pristine mountain ponds. The Audubon Society manages the sanctuary, so keep an eye out for birdwatching opportunities.

Moosehead Lake Region:
While technically not in Medford, Moosehead Lake is a short drive away and well worth the trip. It's the largest lake in Maine and offers an array of...
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GENEALOGY IN MEDFORD

Discover YOUR Roots: Medford Ancestry

Explore ancestors connected to Medford through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.

BIRTHS & DEATHS

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

We currently have information about 3 ancestors who were born or died in Medford.

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Updated: 2/6/2025 3:44:48 PM
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