History of Chelsea, Maine, USA

Chelsea was incorporated as a town on March 1, 1851 separating from a portion of Hallowell.

wikipedia.org

In 1867, Chelsea ceded land to the “National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers” from the Civil War.
(The town sent 98 soldiers to the war, 28 were killed.) The institution eventually became the Togus Veterans Hospital, then Togus Medical Center, known generally as “Togus.”
maineanencyclopedia.com/ chelsea/

1880 - Chelsea population in 1880 - 1,538

maineanencyclopedia.com/ chelsea/

1886 - Chelsea
Chelsea, in the south-eastern part of Kennebec County, lies on the eastern bank of the Kennebec River, by which it is separated from Hallowell and Farmingdale. Augusta bounds it on the north, Pittston on the south, and Whitefield, in Lincoln County, on the east. Prior to its incorporation in 1850 it was a part of Hallowell, and its early history is comprised in that of the latter town and of Augusta. Chelsea is hilly, but without lofty elevations; the highest are Ledge Hill and Winter Hill, each about 100 feet in height. The rock is granitic, and the soil clay and sandy loam. There are several fine farms in town, and the chief occupation is agriculture. The principal stream is Worromontogus, or “Togus,” which runs southward through the eastern part and falls into the Kennebec.

There is a saw and grist mill on this stream, toward the southern part of the town. In the northern part is one of the United States military asylums. The mineral spring at this place formerly. had some... Read MORE...

1890 - Railroad and Trolley Completed
In 1890, a narrow gauge railroad from the Kennebec River in Randolph and an electric trolley line from Augusta were completed and Togus became a popular excursion spot for Sunday picnics. There were frequent band concerts, a zoo, a hotel and a theater which brought shows directly from Broadway.

www.maine.va.gov/ about/ History2.asp

1895 - Chelsea
Chelsea, a township of Kennebec co, Me, on the Kennebec, 5 miles S.E. of Augusta. It has a United States soldiers' asylum (National Military Home Post-Office) at Togus Springs, and manufactures lumber, brick, &c. P. 1239.
Lippincott's Gazetteer of the World: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World Containing Notices of Over One Hundred and Twenty-five Thousand Places ... Joseph Thomas January 1, 1895 J.B. Lippincott

1916
Chelsea, a post-township (town) of Kennebec co., Me., on the Kennebec River, 5 miles SE. of Augusta. Pop. in 1900. 3092.
Lippincotts New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns, Resorts, Islands, Rivers, Mountains, Seas, Lakes, Etc., in Every Portion of the Globe, Part 1 Angelo Heilprin Louis Heilprin - January 1, 1916 J.B. Lippincott - Publisher

Here's a list of the best places to go and things to do in Chelsea, Maine:
Kennebec Rail Trail: For outdoor enthusiasts, the Kennebec Rail Trail is a must-visit. This 6.5-mile trail follows the historic Kennebec Central Railroad right-of-way, offering beautiful views of the Kennebec River and the surrounding countryside. It's perfect for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association: Nature lovers should check out the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association, which maintains several trails in the area. The trails wind through forests, wetlands, and along the Sheepscot River, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and picnicking.

Popham Beach State Park: While not technically in Chelsea, Popham Beach State Park is a short drive away and well worth the visit. This stunning beach offers miles of sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and even kite flying. Don't forget to explore nearby Fort Popham for a bit of history.

Augusta: Chelsea is conveniently close to the capital of Maine,... Read MORE...