250th Anniversary of New Gloucester

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, on Saturday, September 7, I was pleased to join the people of New Gloucester, ME, in celebration of the town's 250th anniversary. It is an honor to recognize this milestone for a town with such a storied and compelling history.

Nestled in the northern part of Cumberland County, New Gloucester was first settled in 1739 under a Massachusetts Bay Colony grant by 60 inhabitants from Gloucester, MA. These early settlers built a small establishment above North Yarmouth where they enjoyed bountiful fishing from the Westcustogo River, today known as the Royal River, which originates at Sabbathday Lake in New Gloucester. Named in honor of their hometown, the early settlers hoped New Gloucester would be to them what Gloucester had been to their parents: a place of opportunity and prosperity.

Conditions on the early northeastern frontier were not always easy, and the settlement had to be abandoned for nearly a decade amid the tumult of the French and Indian War. Ultimately, however, the resilience and determination of those who would make New Gloucester their home won out. Settlers returned in 1754 and erected a blockhouse within a large palisade which protected and housed 12 families until it became safe to build individual homes, with the town rapidly growing into the friendly, tight-knit community locals know today.

New Gloucester boasts abundant natural beauty with its idyllic countryside and rolling hills, which have been tilled by hard-working farmers for generations. Today, it is home to Pineland Farms, one of Maine's largest food producers and best-known brands, as well as many family-owned farms who continue the work of their families going back generations.

The town is also unique for its rich cultural and religious heritage. The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, which sits at the western end of the town, is home to the last active Shaker community in the world. The village contains a barn, library, and museum which share knowledge of the Shaker's way of life and contain artifacts and heirlooms telling the group's story. It remains an important center for the community, hosting events year-round that include tributes to the history of the native Wabanaki population, harvest festivals, and much more.

I joined hundreds of townspeople and many more from across the State for a parade and fair held in commemoration of the town's anniversary. The fair featured over 60 community groups, crafters, and vendors, multiple historic displays, and live music. I so enjoy celebrating Maine's rich history, and Saturday's events were a wonderful example of what unifies the wonderful communities across our State.

New Gloucester's 250th anniversary is a time to honor the great people who have made the town such a beautiful and welcoming place to call home. It is my pleasure to offer congratulations and best wishes to them for this very special milestone.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source