History of Bath and environs, Sagadahoc County, Maine

The author has devoted much time and labor for some years to the object of placing on permanent record, so far as he has been enabled to do so, the important history of this city of commerce and navigation.' In preparing this work for the press, the truths of history have been sought for, official record's, and researches have been patiently and perseveringly instituted among the voluminous documents in the Massachusetts and the Maine archives, as also among the records of -Old York and Old Lincoln Counties, the Maine Historical Society, and the Sagadahoc Society. Valuable assistance has also been courteously rendered by such historians of repute as the Rev. S. F. Dike, D. D., the Rev. H. O. Thayer, also from Gen. Thomas W. Hyde, Hon. John Hayden; the Hon. J. P. Baxter and the Hon. H. W. Bryant of Portland, in the tender of invaluable maps, papers, and other documents. The "Dates" of Mr. Levi P. Lemont, the brief historical sketch of Gen. Joseph Smith of 1833, and the newspaper writings of Judge Nathaniel Groton have been of much value, and there have been many others who have rendered courtesies that have been appreciated. Special acknowledgments are due to Mr. John O. Patten and Capt. Charles E. Patten for valuable assistance.

 

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Many years ago the city of Bristol, situated on the river Avon, was the great sea-port town of England. Long Reach, then as now active in the shipping interest, sent her vessels constantly to that mart of trade and commerce.

Bath, twelve miles from Bristol, was a favorite resort for the benefit of its medicinal waters, healthful climate, and fine scenery. Its fame was carried to the banks of the Kennebec by its sea-faring citizens, and when the "Reach" was to be incorported as a town and a name more acceptable to the inhabitants was sought, Bath was suggested and accepted as most desirable and appropriate, and was adopted.