Port Clyde, Maine Weather Cams
Marshall Point Lighthouse Cam
St. George, Maine: A Coastal Community with a Rich Maritime Heritage
Port Clyde, Maine Weather Cams. Nestled along the rugged coastline of Knox County, Maine, the town of St. George is a picturesque community known for its deep maritime roots, thriving fishing industry, and stunning natural beauty. The town encompasses several historic villages, including Tenants Harbor, Port Clyde, and Spruce Head, each contributing to St. George’s unique character and legacy.
Early Exploration and Settlement
The history of St. George dates back to the early 17th century, when English explorer George Waymouth sailed into the region in 1605. His mission was to assess the area’s natural resources and determine its suitability for settlement. Waymouth named what is now Monhegan Island as “St. Georges Island,” a name that later became associated with the river and the town itself.
The peninsula remained largely uninhabited until after the French and Indian Wars ended in 1763. General Samuel Waldo, who held land rights to the region, initially respected the requests of the Abenaki people to avoid settlement in their prized hunting grounds. However, following the war, settlers arrived in greater numbers, leading to the town’s incorporation in 1803.
Maritime Industry and Fishing
St. George’s economy has long been tied to the sea. The town’s early settlers engaged in shipbuilding, fishing, and trade, exporting cordwood, lumber, and fish to larger markets. By the 19th century, the town had developed a thriving lobster, clam, and sardine canning industry, which provided employment for many residents.
The villages of Tenants Harbor, Port Clyde, and Spruce Head became key centers for fishing and maritime commerce. Port Clyde, in particular, grew into a bustling harbor, serving as a departure point for steamships traveling to Boston and other coastal cities. Today, Port Clyde remains a vital fishing village, home to the Marshall Point Lighthouse, which has guided sailors since 1832.
The Granite Industry and Shipbuilding
In addition to fishing, St. George was known for its granite quarries, which supplied stone for construction projects across the country. The Clark Island Quarry was particularly significant, producing high-quality granite used in buildings and monuments. Shipbuilding also flourished, with local craftsmen constructing three to four vessels annuallyfor the coasting trade.
The Rise of Tourism and the “Rusticators”
By the 1880s, St. George’s rugged coastline and scenic beauty attracted “rusticators”—wealthy visitors who sought refuge from city life. Artists, writers, and vacationers purchased or built summer cottages, transforming the town into a seasonal retreat. The Marshall Point Lighthouse and surrounding islands became popular destinations for tourists and nature enthusiasts.
The Villages of St. George
Each of St. George’s villages has played a distinct role in shaping the town’s identity:
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Tenants Harbor: A picturesque fishing village known for its lobster industry and artistic community. The St. George Historical Society Museum is located here, preserving the town’s rich heritage.
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Port Clyde: A historic harbor town famous for its fishing fleet, ferry service to Monhegan Island, and Marshall Point Lighthouse. The village has long been a hub for maritime activity.
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Spruce Head: A coastal village with a strong lobstering tradition, offering stunning views of the Maine islandsand a close-knit fishing community.
St. George Today
Today, St. George continues to balance its maritime heritage, tourism industry, and conservation efforts. The town remains a vital center for lobster fishing, while also attracting visitors with its historic sites, scenic landscapes, and artistic culture.
For more information, visit the St. George and Port Clyde, Maine official website.