Woolwich, Maine
Woolwich was settled in 1638 and became well-known for it’s timber production. This densely treed area provided neighboring towns with the wood needed to support the booming, local shipbuilding trades. Woolwich also produced leather and bricks for some time during the 1880s. Now home to just over 3,000 people Woolwich is a quiet town with a gorgeous west-facing coastline along the Kennebec River.
Sites and Attractions
- Woolwich Historical Society & Museum. Step back in time when you enter this authentic farmhouse and outbuildings. The museum also offers a large collection of historical and genealogical resources.
- Nequasset Park and Lake. Here you’ll find a public boat launch perfect for launching your kayak, canoe or small boat (Boats with motors under ten mph are permitted). Nequasset Lake is a great place for fishing and birdwatching.
- Montsweag Flea Market. This open-air market offers everything from knick-knacks to rare antiques. Open Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the summer season.
- Nequasset Dam Fish Ladder. In the spring this site is positively raucous. During the annual Alewife migration thousands of fish move from salt to fresh water to spawn. Woolwich has built an intricate fish ladder to help these Alewives along. Osprey, eagles and seagulls make constant circles above the fish ladder waiting for a meal, while local fishermen also harvest a small percentage of the fish.
Places to Eat
- Taste of Maine Restaurant. This is a classic family restaurant, right on Route 1, with a great water view.
- Montsweag Roadhouse. Home to delicious entrees and sides with great live entertainment almost every weekend.
- Woowich Dairy Queen. Grab an icecream on your way home from the beach.
Conserved Areas
- Merrymeeting Fields. In 2003, the 125-acre preserve was donated to the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust by Eleanor Burke, a long time resident at the property. It is home to many nesting birds and small animals and a great place for hiking and snowshoeing.
- Robert P. Tristram Coffin Wildflower Sanctuary. This 177 acre preserve surrounds Merrymeeting Bay with a brook, dense woodlands, a sandy beach and is home to over 100 species of wildflowers.
- Montsweag Preserve. A 1.4 mile trail will take you between private properties to the western shore of the Sheepscot River.