The St. George Peninsula

This fascinating history captures more than two centuries of life on and around the St. George Peninsula. These images feature war heroes, churches, community volunteers, historic sites, summer visitors, sailing vessels, and all phases of the still important fishing industry. St. George's rich cultural heritage is well documented due to the booming granite industry, which lured European laborers to this area in the early 20th century. Many of these quarry
workers remained. They put down roots and constructed stores, post offices, schools, and clusters of wood-framed dwellings. The stark walls of abandoned granite quarries still pay tribute to these hardworking immigrants. Today, this area is the gateway to Monhegan Island. It inspires the
exceptional Wyeth paintings and is a magnet for other noted artists and photographers. Locals, however, still cling to the traditions of their small seaside town.

Tammy L. Willey, a member of the St. George Historical Society, is a passionate town volunteer and fund-raiser. Using historical archives and private albums, she has assembled a collection of photographs, postcards, and other memorabilia dating from the early 1800s to the town's 2003 bicentennial.