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I-95 Destinations: Bangor, Maine, A Legacy of Industry, Culture, and Resilience

I-95 Road Condition. Nestled along the Penobscot River, Bangor, Maine, has a rich history shaped by its natural resources, economic booms, and cultural contributions. From its early days as a Native American settlement to its rise as a lumber capital and modern-day economic center, Bangor has played a pivotal role in the development of Maine and the broader New England region.

Indigenous Roots and European Settlement

The Penobscot people have inhabited the area around present-day Bangor for over 11,000 years. They relied on the river for transportation, fishing, and trade. The name “Kenduskeag,” meaning “at/on the water parsnip ground,” was used to describe the region1.

European exploration of the area began in the late 1500s, with David Ingram being one of the first known Europeans to sail up the Penobscot River. French explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived in 1604, engaging in fur trading with the local Tarratine tribe. However, permanent European settlement did not begin until 1769, when Jacob Buswell and his family established a homestead at the mouth of the Kenduskeag Stream.

Naming of Bangor

Bangor was originally known as Kadesquit, later evolving into Kenduskeag. In 1791, settlers petitioned the Massachusetts General Court for incorporation. The town was supposed to be named Sunbury, but Rev. Seth Noble, an organist and composer, mistakenly responded “Bangor” when asked the town’s name—referring to a Welsh hymn he was whistling at the time. Thus, Bangor became its official name.

The Lumber Capital of the World

By the 19th century, Bangor had become a major hub for the lumber industry. The Penobscot River allowed logs to be floated downstream from the Maine North Woods, where they were processed at Bangor’s sawmills and shipped worldwide. At its peak, Bangor was known as the Lumber Capital of the World, with its wealth reflected in the grand Greek Revival and Victorian mansions built by lumber barons.

The Great Fire of 1911

On April 30, 1911, a devastating fire broke out in downtown Bangor, destroying 55 acres of the city, including hundreds of buildings. The fire reshaped Bangor’s landscape, leading to the construction of new brick structures that still define the city’s architecture today.

Bangor’s Role in Aviation and Military History

Bangor has long been a strategic location for aviation and military operations. Dow Air Force Base, later renamed Bangor International Airport, was a key stopover on the Great Circle Air Route between the U.S. East Coast and Europe. During the Cold War, the base housed B-52 bombers, reinforcing Bangor’s military significance.

Modern Bangor: Economy and Culture

Today, Bangor’s economy is driven by healthcare, education, retail, and tourism. The city is home to Bangor International Airport, Eastern Maine Medical Center, and the University of Maine System campuses.

Bangor also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with institutions like the Bangor Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1896, and the Bangor Historical Society, which preserves the city’s rich heritage. The city’s most famous resident, Stephen King, has drawn global attention to Bangor through his novels, many of which are inspired by the city’s eerie atmosphere.

Conclusion

From its indigenous roots to its rise as a lumber powerhouse and modern economic center, Bangor has continually adapted to changing times. Its resilience in the face of challenges, including the Great Fire of 1911, has cemented its place as one of Maine’s most historically significant cities. Whether through industry, culture, or military contributions, Bangor remains a cornerstone of the Pine Tree State.

For more information, visit the Bangor, Maine official website.

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