Maine Memory Network

William Pepperrell, Kittery, 1846

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: circa 1740 Media: Ink on paper

William Pepperrell letter on completion of ship, 1749

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1749 Location: Kittery Media: Ink on paper

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Big Timber: the Mast Trade

Britain was especially interested in occupying Maine during the Colonial era to take advantage of the timber resources. The tall, straight, old growth white pines were perfect for ships' masts to help supply the growing Royal Navy.