Maine Memory Network

Rural electrification brochure, ca. 1935

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1935 Media: Ink on paper

Railroad tracks, Hallowell, ca. 1880

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: circa 1883 Location: Hallowell Media: Ink on paper

Wired! How Electricity Came to Maine

As early as 1633, entrepreneurs along the Piscataqua River in southern Maine utilized the force of the river to power a sawmill, recognizing the potential of the area's natural power sources, but it was not until the 1890s that technology made widespread electricity a reality -- and even then, consumers had to be urged to use it.

Historic Clothing Collection - Early Twentieth Century

"… mechanic Charles Scrimgeour, who helped with the electrification of Bates Manufacturing Company mills, Mrs."

Life on a Tidal River - Narrative

"… advances of the age in communications, electrification, transportation, and public works."