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Westport Island boasts a rich history, beginning with the Abenaki first people who visited the island. Originally known to colonial settlers as Jeremisquam (possibly a combination of an Abenaki and English name), Westport was incorporated as part of Freetown (now Edgecomb) in 1774, and became a separate town in 1828. Throughout the years, the community grew and shrank as fishing, farming, and shipping opportunities came and went. In 2003, the name was officially changed to Westport Island. Today the island is primarily residential with mostly year round residents and a large influx of seasonal residents.
There are many dedicated volunteers who work to preserve and share Westport Island's history with the public! The town History Committee welcomes members, as does the non-profit Friends of Westport Island History. See below for some great local resources to learn more!
History Center
The History Committee and Friends of Westport Island History are proud to be able to provide the Westport Island History Center at 38 Ferry Rd., open to the public on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. or by appointment. This state-of-the-art facility houses the town's historic artifacts, and features a rotating series of exhibits focusing on different aspects of Westport Island History.
History Trail
Walk, bike or drive this self-guided tour of 10 historically significant sites across the Island! The tour includes interpretive signs providing insight into each site, with QR codes to learn more. Download the map and guide here!
History Books for Sale
There have been several books written about Westport Island's rich history, available for purchase at the Town Office or the History Center. Notecards of historic scenes and paintings by local artists are also available. All proceeds benefit the Friends of Westport Island History.
Maine Memory Network
Many fascinating Westport Island historical documents and photographs can be viewed online through the Maine Memory Network website.
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