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History of Medford, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Medford, Maine, USA
(Kilmarnock)
Explore Medford, 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 Medford Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!
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.
Explore even more about Medford, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Medford Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to MEDFORD
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 Medford: History, News, Travel, and Stories
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
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
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... Read MORE...
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... Read MORE...
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Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Medford, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 3 ancestors who were born or died in Medford.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
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