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History of Sumner, Maine, USA
Journey back in time to Sumner, Maine, USA
(West Butterfield Plantation)
Explore Sumner, 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 Sumner Ancestry? Share YOUR Family Story!

Sumner: Found in Oxford County, Sumner is a rural town nestled in the foothills of western Maine. It’s known for its scenic landscapes, small farms, and peaceful atmosphere.
Originally called West Butterfield Plantation, it was first settled in 1783 by Noah Bosworth from Plympton, Massachusetts. Most of the early settlers were Revolutionary soldiers from Plymouth County, Massachusetts. The town was incorporated by the General Court on June 13, 1798, and named for Increase Sumner, who was then the governor of Massachusetts.
Villages: Barrett (former post office), East Sumner, Redding, Sumner, West Sumner (historically Jackson Village) mainegenealogy.net
Explore even more about Sumner, Maine, USA. Keep reading!
Discover Unique Gift Ideas and Genealogy Resources From or Related to SUMNER

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Discover Sumner: History, News, Travel, and Stories

1839 - Sumner
Sumner, Maine
Oxford county. This town is well watered by a branch of Androscoggin river; it has a fine soil, and produced in 1837, 7,144 bushels of wheat. It lies 44 miles W. from Augusta and 8 N. from Paris. Population, 1837, 1,190.
This town derived its name from Increase Sumner, who was governor of Massachusetts in 1798, when the town was incorporated. Gov. Sumner was a native of Roxbury, Mass. He died in 1799, aged 52 years.
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
Sumner, Maine
Oxford county. This town is well watered by a branch of Androscoggin river; it has a fine soil, and produced in 1837, 7,144 bushels of wheat. It lies 44 miles W. from Augusta and 8 N. from Paris. Population, 1837, 1,190.
This town derived its name from Increase Sumner, who was governor of Massachusetts in 1798, when the town was incorporated. Gov. Sumner was a native of Roxbury, Mass. He died in 1799, aged 52 years.
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 - Sumner
Sumner, a post-village of Oxford co., Me., in Sumner township (town), about 40 miles W. of Augusta. Pop. of the town in 1900, 802.
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
Sumner, a post-village of Oxford co., Me., in Sumner township (town), about 40 miles W. of Augusta. Pop. of the town in 1900, 802.
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 of the best places to visit and things to do in Sumner:
Bald Pate Mountain Preserve: This 486-acre nature preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike along well-maintained trails that lead to the summit of Bald Pate Mountain. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The hike is relatively moderate, making it suitable for hikers of all levels.
Keewaydin Lake: Sumner is surrounded by beautiful lakes, and Keewaydin Lake is one of the highlights. It's an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. There are public access points for launching boats or enjoying a picnic along the shore.
Morrison Hill Orchard: If you visit during the fall, make sure to stop by Morrison Hill Orchard. This family-owned orchard offers apple picking, cider donuts, and a charming country store where you can purchase fresh produce and homemade goods.
Historic Sumner Meeting House: Sumner boasts a rich history, and the Sumner Meeting House is a testament to... Read MORE...
Bald Pate Mountain Preserve: This 486-acre nature preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike along well-maintained trails that lead to the summit of Bald Pate Mountain. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. The hike is relatively moderate, making it suitable for hikers of all levels.
Keewaydin Lake: Sumner is surrounded by beautiful lakes, and Keewaydin Lake is one of the highlights. It's an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. There are public access points for launching boats or enjoying a picnic along the shore.
Morrison Hill Orchard: If you visit during the fall, make sure to stop by Morrison Hill Orchard. This family-owned orchard offers apple picking, cider donuts, and a charming country store where you can purchase fresh produce and homemade goods.
Historic Sumner Meeting House: Sumner boasts a rich history, and the Sumner Meeting House is a testament to... Read MORE...
Discover YOUR Roots: Sumner Ancestry
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Sumner, Maine, USA
We currently have information about 17 ancestors who were born or died in Sumner.View Them Now (sorted by year of birth)
Ancestors Who Were Married in Sumner, Maine, USA
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