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History of Peru, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Peru, Maine, USA
Explore Peru, 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 Peru Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Peru: Found in Oxford County, Peru is a small, scenic town surrounded by mountains and forests. Worthley Pond is a popular spot for fishing and swimming during the summer months.
It was granted by the Massachusetts General Court to several residents from Falmouth, Maine. The first grantee to settle would be Merrill Knight in 1793. Organized in 1812 as Plantation Number 1 (also Thompsontown), it was incorporated on February 5, 1821 as the 240th town in Maine. Peru was named in the spirit of liberty and solidarity for Peru, the South American country which declared independence from Spain on July 28, 1821.
Explore even more about Peru, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to PERU

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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 Peru: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Peru
Peru, Maine
Oxford county. Peru is bounded on the N. by Androscoggin river, and contains some pleasant ponds and mill streams. It has a good soil and produced, in 1837, 3,457 bushels of wheat. Population, same year, 854. Incorporated, 1821. Peru lies 38 miles W. by N. from Augusta and 17 N. by E. from Paris.
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
Peru, Maine
Oxford county. Peru is bounded on the N. by Androscoggin river, and contains some pleasant ponds and mill streams. It has a good soil and produced, in 1837, 3,457 bushels of wheat. Population, same year, 854. Incorporated, 1821. Peru lies 38 miles W. by N. from Augusta and 17 N. by E. from Paris.
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 - Peru
Peru, a post-village in Peru township (town), Oxford co., Me., on the Androscoggin River and on the Portland and Rumford Falls R., 40 miles WNW. of Augusta. Pop. of the town in 1900, 773.
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
Peru, a post-village in Peru township (town), Oxford co., Me., on the Androscoggin River and on the Portland and Rumford Falls R., 40 miles WNW. of Augusta. Pop. of the town in 1900, 773.
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 some popular activities and places to visit in Peru, Maine and its surrounding areas:
Hiking and Outdoor Activities:
1. Tumbledown Mountain: Hike to the summit of Tumbledown Mountain for stunning views and the unique "Crag" and "Loop" trails.
2. Mount Blue State Park: Located nearby in Weld, this park offers hiking, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities.
3. Webb Lake: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the lake's shore.
Snowmobiling and Winter Sports:
Peru is part of the extensive snowmobiling trail system in western Maine, making it a great destination for winter enthusiasts.
Nearby ski resorts, such as Sunday River and Sugarloaf, offer downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
Hunting and Fishing:
The region is known for its hunting and fishing opportunities, including deer hunting and trout fishing in local streams and ponds.
Scenic Drives:
Take a scenic drive through the Maine countryside, especially during the fall foliage season for breathtaking views.
Local Dining:
Enjoy traditional Maine... Read MORE...
Hiking and Outdoor Activities:
1. Tumbledown Mountain: Hike to the summit of Tumbledown Mountain for stunning views and the unique "Crag" and "Loop" trails.
2. Mount Blue State Park: Located nearby in Weld, this park offers hiking, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities.
3. Webb Lake: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the lake's shore.
Snowmobiling and Winter Sports:
Peru is part of the extensive snowmobiling trail system in western Maine, making it a great destination for winter enthusiasts.
Nearby ski resorts, such as Sunday River and Sugarloaf, offer downhill skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
Hunting and Fishing:
The region is known for its hunting and fishing opportunities, including deer hunting and trout fishing in local streams and ponds.
Scenic Drives:
Take a scenic drive through the Maine countryside, especially during the fall foliage season for breathtaking views.
Local Dining:
Enjoy traditional Maine... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Peru Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Peru, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 2 ancestors who were born or died in Peru.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
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