The Sebago Lakes Region: A Brief History

Book excerpt: The Sebago Lakes Region in southwestern Maine is one of the Pine Tree State's most historic. The lake--along with the Presumpscot and Songo Rivers, Brady Pond and Long Lake--was a major transportation route for Native Americans and English and French settlers. Both conflicts and legends abound along these storied waters. The waterways supported the region's growth into a commercial center, as sawmills, gristmills and tanneries flourished during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Canals and railroads connected it to Portland and the rest of New England and brought many visitors, making it one of Vacationland's most popular destinations and the home of several historic summer camps. Join local author Ned Allen as he explores this rich past and celebrates today's resurgence in activity, arts and culture in Bridgton, Standish and other towns around the Sebago Lakes.