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Brunswick, Maine: A Storied Past from Pejepscot to Present
Brunswick, Maine Weather Cams. Brunswick, Maine, is a town steeped in history, shaped by its early Indigenous inhabitants, colonial settlers, maritime industry, and academic institutions. Located along the Androscoggin River, Brunswick has evolved from a trading post into a thriving cultural and economic hub.
Indigenous Roots and Early Settlement
Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Brunswick was home to the Abenaki people, who called it Pejepscot, meaning “the long, rocky rapids part [of the river]”. The Abenaki relied on the river for fishing, transportation, and trade. In 1628, English settler Thomas Purchase established a trading post in the region, marking the beginning of European presence.
During the late 17th century, conflicts between settlers and Indigenous groups escalated, particularly during King Philip’s War (1675–1678) and King William’s War (1688–1697). In response, the English built Fort Andros to protect their settlement. The Treaty of Portsmouth in 1713 brought relative peace, allowing for further expansion.
Colonial Growth and Incorporation
Brunswick was officially incorporated as a township in 1717, named after the Duchy of Brunswick, to which the King of England belonged. The town’s location along the Androscoggin River made it an ideal site for lumber and textile mills, fueling economic growth. By the 19th century, Brunswick had become a center for shipbuilding and manufacturing.
Bowdoin College and Cultural Influence
One of Brunswick’s most significant contributions to American history is Bowdoin College, founded in 1794. The college has produced notable alumni, including Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, a Civil War general, and Robert E. Peary, the Arctic explorer. The Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum, located on campus, showcases memorabilia from Arctic expeditions.
Brunswick also played a role in abolitionist history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, lived in Brunswick while writing her influential novel in 1852. Her home, Stowe House, remains a historical landmark.
Industrial and Maritime Development
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Brunswick thrived as a center for shipbuilding, textiles, and paper manufacturing. The Androscoggin River provided power for mills, and the town’s proximity to the coast facilitated maritime trade. However, the decline of the textile industry in the 1950s led to economic shifts.
Naval Air Station and Modern Transformation
During World War II, Brunswick became home to the Brunswick Naval Air Station, which played a crucial role in military operations. The base was reactivated in 1951 and remained operational until its closure in 2011. Today, the former base has been repurposed as Brunswick Landing, a business and technology hub.
Present-Day Brunswick
Brunswick continues to be a vibrant town, balancing its historical legacy with modern development. It remains a center for education, arts, and commerce, attracting visitors and residents alike. Whether exploring its colonial past, enjoying its scenic waterfront, or engaging with its cultural institutions, Brunswick stands as a testament to Maine’s rich history.
For more information, visit the Acadia National Park, Maine official website.