HISTORIC CASTINE
The peninsula of Castine on the eastern edge of Maine's Penobscot Bay has been the site of continuous human settlement from Native American prehistory until today. Its natural resources and beauty and the commercial, industrial and military values of its strategic location have long been recognized. Nearly four hundred years ago it became one of the earliest European settlements in North America.
For two centuries French, Dutch and British interests contested control of the area. Castine was the site of a major naval defeat for American revolutionary forces (see the Penobscot Expedition) and was occupied by British military troops during both the Revolutionary War and War of 1812. The remnants of several British military sites are still visible today. United States' sovereignty was not secure until the last British departure in 1815.
Peace in the 19th century brought exceptional prosperity from shipbuilding and worldwide seaborne commerce, leaving a rich legacy of fine historic architecture that still graces the town. The continuing growth of tourism that began late in the 19th century and the ever-increasing popularity of seasonal coastal real estate have brought more change, which has included recognition of the need to preserve the remarkable character and long history of the town. The Castine Historical Society is dedicated to this preservation work, and to making its history more accessible to all.
For more information click the "History of Castine" page at www.castine.me.us/display.phtml?tid=9
The Castine Bicentennial Quilt, 24' X 6', 1996
The seven panels of the quilt depict the history of Castine from its earliest European settlement c. 1613 to its bicentennial in 1996. The quilt was designed and constructed by sixty members of the Castine community and presented to the Castine Historical Society in celebration of the town's bicentennial.
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