Westbrook on the Presumpscot

Life is always changing by the falling waters of the Presumpscot. This new photographic history compiled by the members of the Westbrook History 2000 Committee brings to life the deep heritage of an area that has gained strength and spirit from the river that flows through it. Over time, the river has been used as a source of food, recreation, and power for mills. Sadly, it has also been abused with overuse and pollution. It is now being slowly
restored, through legislation, modern technology, and human consideration. This book takes readers on a journey into the days when steamers plied the Presumpscot and life was a bit quieter. From Cumberland Mills and Highland Lake to Duck Pond and Prides' Corner, we view turn-of-the-century schools, homes, trolleys, street scenes, parades, and festivals. We also see where some of Westbrook's earliest residents lived and worked. Images of Frenchtown, Irish Hill, and Scotch Hill vividly show what life was like for the laborers and mill workers in the S.D. Warren and Dana Warp Mills.

The images in this collection―many rare and previously unpublished―have been drawn from the archives of the Walker Memorial Library, the Westbrook Historical Society, St. Hyacinthe’s Historical Society, and many generous private sources. With this book, the Westbrook History 2000 Committee has surely created an important tool to help us connect our rich past with the fast-moving times of the present.