Maine Memory Network

Potato harvester, Mapleton, ca. 1940

Contributed by: Presque Isle Historical Society Date: circa 1940 Location: Mapleton Media: Photographic print

Potato harvesting, New Sweden, ca. 1930

Contributed by: New Sweden Historical Society Date: circa 1930 Location: New Sweden Media: Photographic print

Maine Eats: the food revolution starts here

From Maine's iconic lobsters, blueberries, potatoes, apples, and maple syrup, to local favorites like poutine, baked beans, red hot dogs, Italian sandwiches, and Whoopie Pies, Maine's identity and economy are inextricably linked to food. Sourcing food, preparing food, and eating food are all part of the heartbeat of Maine's culture and economy. Now, a food revolution is taking us back to our roots in Maine: to the traditional sources, preparation, and pleasures of eating food that have sustained Mainers for millennia.

Passing the Time: Artwork by World War II German POWs

In 1944, the US Government established Camp Houlton, a prisoner of war (POW) internment camp for captured German soldiers during World War II. Many of the prisoners worked on local farms planting and harvesting potatoes. Some created artwork and handicrafts they sold or gave to camp guards. Camp Houlton processed and held about 3500 prisoners and operated until May 1946.

Presque Isle: The Star City - Harvesting Potatoes - Page 4 of 13

"Harvesting Potatoes TRACTOR POWER Potato harvester, Mapleton, ca. 1940Presque Isle Historical Society Two row potato digger, ca."

Presque Isle: The Star City - Potato Harvest Memories - Page 4 of 5

"Potato Harvest Memories Out in the fields there were no outhouses. If the workers had to use the bathroom, they would put barrels around themselves."

Aroostook Potato Harvest: Perspective of a Six Year Old
by Phyllis A. Blackstone

A child's memory of potato harvest in the 1950s