History of Androscoggin County, Maine
Androscoggin County, located in southern Maine, has a rich history shaped by its natural resources, industrial development, and strategic location along the Androscoggin River. Established in 1854, the county is known for its early role in the state’s industrial revolution, particularly in textile manufacturing, paper mills, and hydroelectric power. The county’s economy once revolved around water-powered mills, but it has evolved into a more diverse economy with a mix of urban and rural communities. Today, Androscoggin County is home to historical landmarks, beautiful natural landscapes, and vibrant towns, especially Auburn and Lewiston, which serve as its largest cities.
Origins and Key Historical Events
Early Settlement and Indigenous History
Before European settlers arrived in Androscoggin County, the land was inhabited by Wabanaki peoples, including the Abenaki tribe, who lived in the region for thousands of years. The Abenaki utilized the Androscoggin River as a transportation route and relied on the rich forests, rivers, and lakes for fishing, hunting, and gathering. The name “Androscoggin” itself is believed to come from the Abenaki language, possibly meaning “a place of the rocks” or “land of the rocky river.”
The first European settlers arrived in the mid-1600s. They were primarily from France and England, establishing trading posts and small settlements along the Androscoggin River. These settlers sought to trade furs, particularly with the Abenaki, and later established agricultural communities as the demand for timber, fur, and agricultural products grew.
By the early 19th century, the Androscoggin River was becoming a hub for logging, a key industry that would shape the region’s economy for decades. The river provided a natural highway for transporting timber, and soon, sawmills and gristmills sprang up along its banks.
The Birth of Industry in Androscoggin County
The most transformative period for Androscoggin County came during the Industrial Revolution of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With abundant waterpower from the Androscoggin River, the region became a prime location for the establishment of textile mills and paper mills, which would become central to the county’s economy.
The county’s first significant industrial enterprise was the Auburn Manufacturing Company, which began producing textiles in 1840. In 1854, Androscoggin County was officially established, and its name was taken from the river that ran through it. The county quickly became a key center for industrialization, attracting labor from surrounding areas. As the industrial sector grew, the counties of Lewiston and Auburn, particularly in the late 19th century, became famous for their textile mills, paper industries, and manufacturing businesses.
The Lewiston-Auburn area, also known as the Twin Cities, was one of the largest producers of textiles in the country by the early 20th century. The Great Falls in Lewiston, which offered significant hydropower, became a critical site for the mills and helped make the area one of the largest producers of cotton textiles in New England.
Labor Strikes and Social Movements
The rapid growth of industry in Androscoggin County was not without its challenges. The growth of textile and paper mills created difficult working conditions, particularly for women and children, who were often employed in the mills. Workers were subject to long hours, dangerous conditions, and poor pay. These factors led to numerous labor disputes, the most significant of which was the 1912 Lewiston Textile Mill Strike.
In 1912, mill workers went on strike demanding better wages, improved working conditions, and reduced hours. The strike was part of a broader wave of industrial labor strikes across the country and was significant in that it led to greater public awareness of the harsh conditions in the mills. While the strike did not immediately lead to sweeping changes, it was a major milestone in the development of labor rights in Maine and the broader Northeast.
The Decline of the Textile Industry and the Rise of Paper Mills
By the mid-20th century, the textile industry in Androscoggin County began to decline due to competition from southern mills and changes in labor costs. However, the paper industry continued to thrive, with mills in Lewiston and Auburn becoming some of the largest paper producers in the region. The Fraser Paper Mill and other paper mills continued to dominate the county’s economy for many years, along with a diverse manufacturing sector that included furniture and shoe production.
However, the paper industry also faced challenges, particularly in the late 20th century, when mills began closing due to rising costs and environmental regulations. The closure of several mills led to job losses and economic hardship for many communities. Despite these challenges, Androscoggin County has gradually diversified its economy in the 21st century, with a focus on healthcare, education, technology, and retail industries.
Historical Sites in Androscoggin County
1. The Bates Mill Complex
Overview
The Bates Mill Complex, located in Lewiston, is a symbol of the county’s industrial history. Built in the mid-19th century, the Bates Mill was one of the largest textile mills in New England and a crucial part of Lewiston’s rise as a major industrial city. The complex was historically a major employer for the region and an essential part of the development of the textile industry. Today, portions of the complex have been preserved, and it serves as a reminder of the city’s industrial past.
Location:
35 Canal St, Lewiston, ME 04240
Ticket Price:
- Free to view the exterior; guided tours may be available for specific events.
Parking Information:
Street parking is available around the mill complex, with additional parking lots nearby.
2. The Museum L-A
Overview
Museum L-A, located in Lewiston, is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the industrial heritage of the Lewiston-Auburn region. The museum features exhibits on the textile mills, the immigrant workers who powered them, and the labor movements that shaped the region. Visitors can learn about the challenges faced by mill workers, the history of the mills, and how they influenced the growth of the area. It’s an excellent resource for understanding the county’s industrial history and its connection to the broader social and economic forces in the United States.
Location:
35 Canal St, Lewiston, ME 04240
Ticket Price:
- Adults: $6
- Seniors/Students: $4
- Children (under 12): Free
Parking Information:
Free parking is available at the museum’s lot on Canal Street.
3. Androscoggin Riverlands State Park
Overview
For a more natural experience, Androscoggin Riverlands State Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Androscoggin River and its surrounding landscape. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The park also has several miles of trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty that helped shape the region’s early economy. The park is an excellent place to see the region’s natural flora and fauna and offers a quiet retreat just outside of Lewiston and Auburn.
Location:
75 River Rd, Turner, ME 04282
Ticket Price:
- Free entry for day-use areas
Parking Information:
Parking is available on-site, with designated spaces for park visitors.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Androscoggin County is located in southern Maine, with a diverse landscape that includes forests, rivers, and wetlands. The county is bordered to the north by Oxford County, to the south by Kennebec County, and to the west by New Hampshire. The Androscoggin River is the dominant geographic feature, running through the center of the county and providing historical importance as a transportation and industrial route. The area also has several parks and nature reserves, offering outdoor recreational opportunities.
The climate in Androscoggin County is classified as humid continental, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Average temperatures in winter hover around 20-30°F, while summer temperatures range from 70-85°F. The county sees moderate precipitation year-round, with snowfall averaging about 80 inches per year.
Key County Statistics
- Year Founded: 1854
- County Seat: Auburn
- Population: Approximately 108,000
- Population Density: 305 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Lewiston, Auburn, Lisbon
- Major Highways: Interstate 95, U.S. Route 202, Maine State Route 4
- Adjacent Counties:
- Cumberland County (south)
- Kennebec County (east)
- Franklin County (north)
- Oxford County (west)