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

Shirley: Located in Piscataquis County, Shirley is a small rural community surrounded by forests and mountains. It offers access to pristine wilderness and is a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching.
[SHEHR-lee] is a town in Piscataquis County, incorporated on March 4, 1834 from the township T3 R4 BKP, EKR.
It annexed part of the town of Wilson in 1848, the year before that town was dissolved and its remains parceled out to Greenville and Elliottsville.
Shirley was first settled in 1825.
The town was named for the Massachusetts hometown of Joseph Kelsey, the local Representative to the Maine Legislature at the time of incorporation. maineanencyclopedia.com
Explore even more about Shirley, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to SHIRLEY

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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 Shirley: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Shirley
Shirley, Maine
Piscataquis county. This town was incorporated in 1834. It was formerly No. 3 in the 4th range of the Bingham Purchase. It is watered by the higher branches of Piscataquis river, and lies about 76 miles N. by E. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 213.
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
Shirley, Maine
Piscataquis county. This town was incorporated in 1834. It was formerly No. 3 in the 4th range of the Bingham Purchase. It is watered by the higher branches of Piscataquis river, and lies about 76 miles N. by E. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 213.
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 - Shirley
Shirley, a township (town) of Piscataquis co., Me., about 60 miles NW. of Bangor. Pop. in 1900, 248.
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
Shirley, a township (town) of Piscataquis co., Me., about 60 miles NW. of Bangor. Pop. in 1900, 248.
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 things to do and places to visit in and around Shirley, Maine:
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument: Located nearby, this national monument offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The monument boasts stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterways.
Moosehead Lake: Just a short drive away, Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and scenic cruises. You can also explore the charming town of Greenville along the lake's shore.
Appalachian Trail: Shirley is near the Appalachian Trail, and you can enjoy hiking portions of this famous long-distance trail. The Gulf Hagas area is particularly scenic and known as the "Grand Canyon of the East."
White Water Rafting: The nearby Penobscot River and Kennebec River are popular spots for white water rafting adventures, offering thrilling experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shirley Bog: Shirley Bog is a unique natural area with a floating bog boardwalk. It's... Read MORE...
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument: Located nearby, this national monument offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The monument boasts stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and waterways.
Moosehead Lake: Just a short drive away, Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and scenic cruises. You can also explore the charming town of Greenville along the lake's shore.
Appalachian Trail: Shirley is near the Appalachian Trail, and you can enjoy hiking portions of this famous long-distance trail. The Gulf Hagas area is particularly scenic and known as the "Grand Canyon of the East."
White Water Rafting: The nearby Penobscot River and Kennebec River are popular spots for white water rafting adventures, offering thrilling experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Shirley Bog: Shirley Bog is a unique natural area with a floating bog boardwalk. It's... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Shirley Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Shirley, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 4 ancestors who were born or died in Shirley.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
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