Maine Memory Network

Letter with a verbal tally of votes for separation, Belfast, 1816

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1816-07-27 Location: Belfast Media: Ink on paper

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Orchard Cook on his frustration with Maine's separation movement, Washington DC, 1806

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1806-07-27 Location: Washington; Boston Media: Ink on paper

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Proposed State Capitol Building, Portland, 1889

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1889 Location: Portland Client: unknown Architect: John Calvin Stevens and Albert Winslow Cobb Architects

State of Mind: Becoming Maine

The history of the region now known as Maine did not begin at statehood in 1820. What was Maine before it was a state? How did Maine separate from Massachusetts? How has the Maine we experience today been shaped by thousands of years of history?

Selections from the Collections

Maine Historical Society staff come across unique and unforgettable items in our collections every day. While it's difficult to choose favorites from a dynamic collection, this exhibit features memorable highlights as selected by members of the MHS staff.

Maine's Road to Statehood - The American Revolution and Early Attempts at Separation - Page 1 of 2

"… the separation of the District of Maine from Massachusetts.[4] Separation was not a new proposition, “Farmer” noted: “It was in contemplation…"

Maine's Road to Statehood - The American Revolution and Early Attempts at Separation - Page 2 of 2

"Maine only had three incorporated counties before 1790—York, Cumberland and Lincoln. Summarized list of grievances (in sidebar): Hatch, Maine…"

Harold's Garage, Rome Hollow, Maine
by Mimi C

Story about Harold Hawes, owner of Harold's garage and self-styled auctioneer in Rome Hollow, Maine

Sister Therese Bouthot:Life of service as a Good Shepherd sister
by Biddeford Cultural & Heritage Center

From humble beginnings to playing a leadership role in the service of others

Maine Statehood

Grade Level: 9-12 Content Area: Social Studies
Maine's quest for statehood began in the years immediately following the American Revolution. Though the state of Massachusetts consented to the separation in 1819 and Maine would ultimately achieve statehood in 1820, Maine’s split from Massachusetts was not without controversy and was not universally supported by people living in Maine. Using primary sources, students will explore the arguments for and against Maine statehood. Students will gather evidence and arguments to debate the statement: It is in the best interests of the people of Maine for Maine to become its own state.

Becoming Maine: The Votes for Statehood

Grade Level: 3-5 Content Area: Social Studies
Maine became a state in 1820 after separating from Massachusetts, but the call for statehood had begun long before the final vote. Why did it take so long? Was 1820 the right time? In this lesson, students will begin to place where Maine’s statehood fits into the broader narrative of 18th and 19th century American political history. They will have the opportunity to cast their own Missouri Compromise vote after learning about Maine’s long road to statehood.