A visit to Vassalboro, Maine

Vassalboro, Maine is a neighbor to the capital of Augusta. The town is located on the east side of the Kennebec River. It was incorporated in 1771.

Like most Maine towns, Vassalboro depends on its historical society to collect, preserve, and share its history. If the state had an award for the most organized historical society, it is nearly certain that Vassalboro would win it. The faithful care and diligence they have invested in this work is astonishing in its detail and scope.

The historical society is housed along Route 32 in a former school that dates back to 1929. The upstairs has a research library, office, and rooms filled with curated displays. This is a location to visit more than once as the collections are regularly changed and updated.

If you’re looking for any type of paper record related to the history of the town of Vassalboro, you’ll find it here. Not stacked in an unsorted box in a dusty corner, but organized and labeled. Even the items which are in storage are kept in archival safe conditions and easily tracked down.

This labor of love has been — and continues to be — the work of a team of volunteers. There’s no doubt about it, Vassalboro is a community which stewards their history with excellence.

The historical society owns other buildings a “hop, skip, and a jump” from the old school. A harness shop and firehouse are works in progress. The blacksmith shop was built in 1932 by local Harold Taylor (1897-1980). Its interior remains nearly untouched, as if Mr. Taylor stepped out for a few minutes. 

Nearly every part of Vassalboro gives evidence of a connected, engaged community. While many of Maine’s granges have declined, #322 in this town is very active with regular events for the public. In addition, the Vassalboro Public Library, Rec Department, and local churches are a few of the many places where this town gathers to spend time together in meaningful, fun, and creative ways. It is a good Maine place in which to make a home or pay a visit.

Many thanks to Janice Clowes, president of the Vassalboro Historical Society for an extensive tour. She is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Appreciation is also extended to Donald Robbins for an impromptu walkthrough of the early 1800s grist mill which has been in his family for generations (pictured above).

The historical society has many events, including open houses. You can find the details and latest updates on their Facebook page: Vassalboro Historical Society.

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