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History of Rangeley, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Rangeley, Maine, USA
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Rangeley, Maine, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Rangeley
Rangeley: Located in Franklin County, Rangeley is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by mountains and lakes, it’s known for fishing, hiking, and skiing in the nearby Rangeley Lakes region.
It is named after an Englishman, Squire James Rangeley, who inherited a 31,000-acre (130 km2) tract bought from Massachusetts in 1796 by his father. He arrived in 1825 to establish an estate based on the English system of landlord and tenants, also giving extensive land to settlers. He built a sawmill, a gristmill, a two-story mansion, and a ten-mile (16 km) road to connect his property with the rest of the world. Rangeley resided here for 15 years, then sold the property and moved to Portland.
It is named after an Englishman, Squire James Rangeley, who inherited a 31,000-acre (130 km2) tract bought from Massachusetts in 1796 by his father. He arrived in 1825 to establish an estate based on the English system of landlord and tenants, also giving extensive land to settlers. He built a sawmill, a gristmill, a two-story mansion, and a ten-mile (16 km) road to connect his property with the rest of the world. Rangeley resided here for 15 years, then sold the property and moved to Portland.
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VINTAGE RANGELEY
Rangeley Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
View of Rangeley, Maine, 1906
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
Rangeley Lakes, Me., The Barker and Cottages, 1907
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
Rangeley Lake Hotel
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
![Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fPlaces%2fDetails%2f3110&media=https%3a%2f%2fgreenerpasture.com%2fContent%2fancestorimages%2frangeley_me_doc_grant.jpg&description=Rangeley, Maine, USA - Doc Grant Restaurant
Elmer "Doc" Grant opened a restaurant in the small town of Rangely in 1941. ){kind=small}
Doc Grant Restaurant
Elmer "Doc" Grant opened a restaurant in the small town of Rangely in 1941.
Elmer "Doc" Grant opened a restaurant in the small town of Rangely in 1941.
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
Main Street, Rangeley, Maine
Rangeley, Maine, USA
Postcard
Main Street, Rangeley Lakes, Maine
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to RANGELEY
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.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Rangeley: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Rangeley through the years.
1839 - Rangely
Rangely [Rangeley] and Rangely Lake, Maine
Franklin county. This town lies on the Androscoggin river, and at the outlet of Oquossack lake. It is about 40 miles N.W. from Farmington. See "Down East."
Franklin county. This town lies on the Androscoggin river, and at the outlet of Oquossack lake. It is about 40 miles N.W. from Farmington. See "Down East."
1906 - Rangeley
Rangeley, a post-village of Franklin co., Me., in Rangeley township (town), 40 miles NW. of Farmington on the Phillips and Rangeley R. It has saw-mills. The town is bounded on the S. by Lake Oquossoe, 7 miles long. Pop. of the town in 1900, 961; of the village, 563.
Here are some popular things to do and places to visit in Rangeley:
Rangeley Lakes: Explore the pristine Rangeley Lakes, including Rangeley Lake itself, Mooselookmeguntic Lake, and others. These lakes offer opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and scenic cruises.
Saddleback Mountain: This ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The views from the top are breathtaking.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway: Take a scenic drive along this byway to enjoy the stunning views of the lakes, forests, and mountains. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery.
Rangeley Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum: Learn about the history of outdoor sports in the area, including hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The museum features a fascinating collection of artifacts.
Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust: Explore the numerous trails and conservation areas managed by the trust. These trails are perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Fishing: Rangeley is famous ...
Read more
Saddleback Mountain: This ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The views from the top are breathtaking.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway: Take a scenic drive along this byway to enjoy the stunning views of the lakes, forests, and mountains. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery.
Rangeley Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum: Learn about the history of outdoor sports in the area, including hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The museum features a fascinating collection of artifacts.
Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust: Explore the numerous trails and conservation areas managed by the trust. These trails are perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Fishing: Rangeley is famous ...
GENEALOGY IN RANGELEY
Discover YOUR Roots: Rangeley Ancestry
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BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Rangeley, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 9 ancestors who were born or died in Rangeley.
View ancestors by year of birthMARRIAGES
Ancestors Who Were Married in Rangeley, Maine, USA
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Updated: 3/11/2026 11:48:24 PM
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