History of Norway, Maine, USA

1839 - Norway
Norway, Maine
Oxford county. This is a fine township, well watered by several streams and ponds. One of the ponds is very large,—very handsome, and discharges its waters into Little Androscoggin river. Norway lies 47 miles W. by S. from Augusta and is bounded on the E. by Paris. Incorporated, 1797. Population, 1837, 1,791. Wheat crop, same year, 7,272 bushels.
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 - Norway
Norway, a post- village in Oxford co., Maine, 45 miles W. by S. from Augusta. Two papers arc issued here. Pop. of the township, 1963.
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.

1889 - Norway
The growth and present prosperous condition of Norway reveal the distinguishing characteristics of a typical and model New England town. Within a little more than a hundred years worthy results have been obtained which merit great admiration. The town was first settled in 1786, though explorations, survey log and clearing had begun during the two last previous years. The first settlers were Joseph and Jonas Stevens, George Lessley, Jeremiah and Amos Hobbs, Nathan Noble and their families. The soil was very alluvial, fish and game plenty, wood abundant, so that the first few years were not marred by want, though they had most of the usual trials and hardships of pioneer life. These first settlers were of the sturdiest, most progressive New England type, and set to work with a fire and perseverance that soon told perceptibly on the wilderness around them. In the first year, 1786 also came Benjamin Herring, Dudley Pike, John and Win. Parsons who also added force and wisdom to the rough... Read MORE...

1894 - NORWAY, ME., ALMOST DESTROYED. VILLAGE HELPLESS IN A FIERCE FIRE WHICH SWEEPS THROUGH THE TOWN.
Norway, Me., May 9. - Fire was discovered about about 1:30 P.M. in the box shop of C. B. CUMMINGS, originating from a hot journal. The shop was situated on the west end of Main Street.

The fire quickly spread, and soon communicated to the Opera House, the finest block in the county, with two heavily stocked stores on the first floor.

The town being handicapped by the lack of a fire department, it was but a few minutes before the fierce gale which was blowing at the time carried the light, inflammable matter from the box shop to the very extreme eastern end of Main Street, a distance of nearly three-quarters of a mile.

The street was thickly populated, and some of the finest residences of the town were built in it.

Help was called from Lewiston and Portland, both of which places sent steamers.

Tonight almost the entire south side of Main Street is in ashes, but two or three houses remaining standing, and they are in a much damaged condition. The South Paris and Bethel... Read MORE...

1895 - Norway
Norway, a post-village in Norway township, Oxford co., Me., on a small lake, about 2 miles W. of the Grand Trunk Railway, 45 miles N. by W. of Portland, and 4 miles S.W. of Paris. It has a liberal institute, a newspaper office, 4 churches, a national bank, a savings-bank, a tannery, and manufactures of carriages, clothing, flour, and lumber. Pop, about 1500; of the township, 1954.
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

1906
Norway, a banking post-village of Oxford co., Me., on a small lake and on the Grand Trunk R., 48 miles N. by W. of Portland. It has manufactures of shoes and lumber. Pop. in 1900, 2034; of the township (town), 2902.
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's a list of some of the best places to go and things to do in Norway, Maine:
Norway Brewing Company:

Start your exploration with a visit to the Norway Brewing Company. They have a fantastic selection of craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy some local brews.

Norway Arts Festival:

Check if the Norway Arts Festival is happening during your visit. This annual event showcases local artists, musicians, and craftspeople. It's a lively celebration of the town's creative spirit.

Norway Historical Society:

For a dose of local history, visit the Norway Historical Society. Learn about the town's past through exhibits and artifacts. It's a small but fascinating glimpse into Norway's heritage.

Lake Pennesseewassee Park:

Enjoy the beauty of nature at Lake Pennesseewassee Park. The park offers a peaceful setting with a lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.

Step Falls Preserve:

If you're a nature enthusiast, don't miss Step Falls Preserve. It's a... Read MORE...