History of Jay, Maine, USA

In 1793, a tavern was constructed at Jay Hill.

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1795 - On February 26, 1795, Phipps-Canada was incorporated as Jay.

1839 - Jay
Jay, Maine
Franklin county. Jay lies at a bend of Androscoggin river, 29 miles W. by N. from Augusta and 12 S.S.W. from Farmington. There is much valuable land in Jay. The inhabitants are principally farmers, and cultivate the soil with much industry. The town produced, in 1837, 8,129 bushels of wheat, and considerable wool. Population, 1830, 1,276; 1837, 1,685. Incorporated, 1795.
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

1854 - Jay
Jay, a township of Franklin co., Maine, on the Androscoggin river, about 28 miles N. W. from Augusta. Population, 1733.
A New and Complete Gazetteer of the United States: Giving a Full and Comprehensive Review of the Present Condition, Industry, and Resources of the American Confederacy ... Thomas Baldwin (of Philadelphia.) Joseph Thomas January 1, 1854 Philadelphia : Lippincott, Grambo & Company 1854.

In 1857, the Maine Central Railroad reached the town of Jay.

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Jay had a population of 1,490 in 1870.

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1886 - Jay
Jay is the south-western town of Franklin County, and is 30 miles north of Lewiston. It is bounded north by Wilton, east by Chesterville, south by Livermore and East Livermore, in Androscoggin County. The town is nearly square in its form, and has an area of about 18,000 acres. The Androscoggin River runs south-eastward across the southwestern corner. The only other stream of magnitude is a large brook which comes down from Dixfield and Wilton through the western part of the town. The largest sheet of water is Perkin’s Pond, which has an area of about 150 acres. The highest eminence in town is Spruce Mountain, which has an altitude of about 2,000 feet. The usual varieties of trees are found in the forests. The rock is principally granite. The soil is loamy, and quite productive. Hay, corn, wheat, potatoes, oats and apples are raised in quantities beyond the need of the town. On the Androscoggin River in this town are three excellent waterpowers—the aggregate fall being about 36 feet.... Read MORE...

In 1888, industrialist Hugh J. Chisholm built at southern Jay the Otis Falls Pulp & Paper Company mill, then the 3rd largest paper mill in the country

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1895 - Jay
Jay, a post-village of Franklin co., Me., in Jay town ship, on the Androscoggin River, and on the Maine Central Railroad, at Jay Bridge Station, 39 miles N. of Lewiston, It has a church and a lumber-mill. Pop. of township, 1490.
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
Jay, a post-village of Franklin co., Me., in Jay town ship (town), on the Androscoggin River and on the Maine Central It., 39 miles N. of Lewiston. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2758.
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

(Jay, Maine) - In 1965, International Paper opened the Androscoggin Mill. It is an integrated pulp and finished paper goods plant employing 990 people operating 5 paper machines.

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Here's a list of some of the best places to go and things to do in Jay:
French Falls Recreation Area:

If you're a fan of outdoor activities, the French Falls Recreation Area is a must-visit. This beautiful spot offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a serene waterfall. It's a perfect place for a family day out or a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.

Jay Historical Society:

To get a glimpse into Jay's past, visit the Jay Historical Society. Learn about the town's history, see vintage photos, and discover the stories that shaped this community. It's a great place for those interested in local history and culture.

Spruce Mountain Ski Slope:

During the winter months, Spruce Mountain Ski Slope is the go-to destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Enjoy the thrill of gliding down the slopes and take in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Androscoggin Riverlands State Park:

If you're into outdoor adventures, explore the Androscoggin Riverlands State Park. This park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and... Read MORE...