History of Richmond, Maine, USA

1839 - Richmond
Richmond, Maine
Lincoln county. Within these limits on the west bank of Kennebec river, stood an ancient fortress called Richmond; hence the name of the town. It lies between Bowdoinham and Gardiner, and is the site of some ship building and navigation. The town has mill privileges on a stream which empties into Merrymeeting bay: its soil is productive, and its location pleasant. Richmond lies 15 miles S. from Augusta, and 15 N. from Topsham. Incorporated, 1823. Population, 1837, 1,526. Wheat crop, same year, 1,656 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 - Richmond
Richmond, a post-village in Lincoln co., Maine, on the Kennebec and Portland railroad, 17 miles S. from Augusta. Population of the township, 2056.
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.

1871 - Thirteen Dwellings and Stores Burned in Richmond, Me.--Ladies at the Fire Engines.
AUGUSTA, Me., Sept. 3. - A fire in Richmond, Me., on Sunday morning, destroyed some thirteen dwellings and stores on the south side of Maine and on White and Church streets. The fire broke out about midnight in a shoe-stitching building on White-street, and burned till daybreak before it was subdued. Thirty buildings were on fire at one time. Once the men were obliged to leave the engines to protect their own property, and their places were filled by ladies, who worked at the engines over an hour. Loss, over $20,000; insurance, $11,000. The origin of the fire is unknown.
The New York Times
New York, New York
September 4, 1871

1886 - Richmond
Richmond, the most northerly town of Sagadahoc County, is situated on the west bank of the Kennebec River, 17 miles south of Augusta and 12 miles north of Bath by water. The Main Central railroad passes through the town near the river, having a station at the village in the south-east part of the town, and flag stations at Iceboro' and the Camp-ground. Gardiner bounds it on the north, Bowdoinham on the south, Dresden on the east and Litehfield on the west. In dimensions, the town is about 5½ by 6 miles. The surface is rolling with moderate hills. Preble, Wilson, and Mount Tom hills are the principal elevations. Cobbossee Contee, or Pleasant Pond, with its southern feeder, forms the western boundary of the town. The pond is about five miles in length, hut is scarcely more than half a mile wide at its widest part. Abagadasset River rises in the north western part and runs south. ward through the town. Mill Brook is the principal stream in the eastern part of the town, discharging into... Read MORE...

1889 - Richmond
Of the numerous and beautiful towns and cities along the banks of the great Kennebee, the progressive and delightful town of Richmond is worthy of special mention in many respects. Richmond was one of the earliest places settled in Maine, and in the Kennebec valley; as early as 1649, Christopher Lawson bought this whole region from the Indians for a mere song, and in 1651 he sold it again to Messrs. Clark & Lake who settled here about the same time Gardiner was being settled. During the French and Indian wars in the early part of the eighteenth century, Richmond was one of the most important points strategically on the whole frontier. Fort Richmond was built in 1719 and 1720, and up to the close of the wars it was the defensive center and place of refuge for this whole central section of the Kennebec valley. It was twice attacked by the Indians, once in 1722, and again in 1750, and successfully repelled them each time. After the cessation of the French and Indian wars it enjoyed... Read MORE...

1895 - Richmond
Richmond, a post-village in Richmond township, Sagadahoc co., Me., on the W. bank of the Kennebec River, 16 miles below Augusta, and on the Maine Central Railroad, 44 miles N.E. of Portland. It contains 3 churches, an academy, 2 national banks, a steam saw-mill, a planing-mill, and a large manufactory of boots and shoes. Steamboats run from this place to Boston, except in winter. Pop. of the township in 1890, 3082.
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
Richmond, a banking post-village in Richmond township (town), Sagadahoc co., Me., on the W. bank of the Kennebec River and on the Maine Central R., 44 miles NE. of Portland. It has an ice trade and manufactures of cotton yarns, etc. Pop. of the town in 1900, 2049.
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 the best places to go and things to do in Richmond:
Swan Island Wildlife Management Area:

Take a ferry to Swan Island, located in the Kennebec River. It's a wildlife management area with beautiful trails, perfect for hiking and bird watching.

Richmond Area Historical Society & Museum:

Learn about the rich history of the town at the local historical society. The museum often hosts exhibits and events showcasing the area's past.

Richmond Town Waterfront:

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. The scenic views of the Kennebec River are especially stunning during sunrise and sunset.

Recreational Trails:

Explore the various recreational trails in and around Richmond. Whether you prefer walking, running, or biking, there are trails suitable for all fitness levels.


Fishing on the Kennebec River:

If you're a fishing enthusiast, try your luck on the Kennebec River. It's known for its diverse fish population, including bass and trout.

Richmond Farmer's Market:

Visit the local farmer's market to sample... Read MORE...