Maine is the northeasternmost state in the contiguous United States, celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline studded with lighthouses, lobster shacks perched over sheltered coves, the dramatic granite peaks of Acadia National Park, and vast northern forests roamed by moose. From the vibrant restaurant scene of Portland to the tranquil islands of Penobscot Bay, Maine offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.
Historical timeline
Key moments that shaped Maine.
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1
Wabanaki peoples settle Maine's coast and river valleys, establishing sophisticated cultures centered on hunting, fishing, and seasonal migration
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2
John Cabot's expedition likely reaches the Maine coast, among the first European contacts with the region
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3
French explorer Samuel de Champlain maps the Maine coast; French establish brief settlements at Saint Croix Island
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4
English Popham Colony established at the mouth of the Kennebec River — the first English settlement in New England, lasting one winter
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5
Province of Maine absorbed into Massachusetts Bay Colony, beginning 168 years of political union
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6
First naval battle of the American Revolution fought at Machias Bay (June 12) — the sloop Margaretta captured by colonists led by Jeremiah O'Brien
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7
Maine becomes the 23rd state of the Union on March 15, separated from Massachusetts as part of the Missouri Compromise
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8
Bath's golden age of wooden shipbuilding; the Kennebec River launches more tonnage than any river in the world
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9
First Acadia National Park lands purchased; the park is formally established in 1919 as the first national park east of the Mississippi
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10
Maine reinvents itself as a tourism and creative economy destination; Portland becomes a nationally recognized food city
Historical sites
Places where Maine's past comes alive.
Fort Knox State Historic Site
Where: Prospect (Penobscot River)
Admission: Adult: $4.50 | Child: $1 ages 5–11; free under 5
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse and Fishermen's Museum
Where: New Harbor (Bristol)
Admission: Adult: $4 grounds; Museum included | Child: Free under 12
Maine Maritime Museum
Where: Bath
Admission: Adult: $18 | Child: $10 ages 6–16; free under 6
Portland Head Light and Museum
Where: Cape Elizabeth
Admission: Adult: Museum $5 | Child: Museum $1 ages 6–18; grounds free
Victoria Mansion
Where: Portland
Admission: Adult: $20 | Child: $10 ages 6–17; free under 6
Penobscot Marine Museum
Where: Searsport
Admission: Adult: $14 | Child: $8 ages 7–15; free under 7
Burnham Tavern (oldest building in Maine)
Where: Machias
Admission: Adult: $5 | Child: $2 under 12
Wadsworth-Longfellow House
Where: Portland
Admission: Adult: $12 | Child: $5 ages 5–17