How to Celebrate Maine's Bicentennial

Everyone loves a birthday party, and Maine is gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime blowout. 2020 marks the Pine Tree State's Bicentennial with festivities set to run all year long. Our REALTORS® are looking forward to participating in these entertaining and educational activities for Maine's 200th birthday.

History of Maine

While Maine officially became a state in 1820, its known history dates back to 3000 B.C. when it was inhabited by an indigenous tribe known as the Red Paint People. The first European settlement was founded on St. Croix Island by a French group, including famous explorer Samuel de Champlain.

Maine is now the largest of the New England states, but at one time it was part of Massachusetts. That ended in 1819 when the Massachusetts General Court separated the District of Maine from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Maine officially became the 23rd state on March 15, 1820, as part of the Missouri Compromise. This legislation allowed Maine to enter the Union as a free state.

Bicentennial Events and Programs

• Bicentennial Parade - 12 Riverside Dr., Auburn, ME 04210
  What's a celebration without a parade? Maine's Bicentennial Parade will feature floats, bands, and marchers in a festive procession from Auburn to Lewiston. Vendors will be on hand with food and beverages for sale. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 16.
  
  
• Time Capsule Sealing - Maine State Library, 64 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333
  What mementos would give future generations the most insight to life in Maine today? Residents can share suggestions for items to be included in the Time Capsule Sealing on Saturday, October 10. Residents born on March 15 will serve as "capsule keepers" and participate in sealing of additional compartments for further landmark anniversaries.
  
  
• Regional Struggle, National Story: Maine's Path to Statehood - Maine State Museum, 230 State St., Augusta, ME 04330
  The Maine State Museum is a living testament to persistence, so it's only fitting that it serves as a showcase for the Bicentennial. Regional Struggle, National Story: Maine's Path to Statehood is a fascinating depiction of the state's journey. The exhibit, which runs throughout 2020, will include several items and documents never before shown in public.
  
  
• Imagine Maine's Story: A Bicentennial Toolkit
  In addition to lending books and other reading materials, libraries serve as community centers where residents around Augusta homes for sale can connect. Imagine Maine's Story: A Bicentennial Toolkit is a program launched by the Maine Humanities Council, encouraging local interaction with libraries. The "toolkit" includes Maine-related programs for all age groups, a list of state organizations, and specific library resources. 
  
  
• Maine State House - Capital and State Streets, Augusta, ME 04333
  The Maine State House was built in 1832, one year after Augusta became the state capital. This impressive building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, and it continues to function as home to Maine's legislature. Doors are open to the public free of charge weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., and tours are conducted each hour between 9 a.m. - noon. 

Be a part of Maine's next chapter! Contact us for trustworthy and experienced help with your real estate needs in the Augusta area.