Located on the Kennebec River, Bath, Maine is a small town with a rich history. With a population of just over 8,000, it’s hard to believe that this town once played such a significant role in American shipbuilding. However, Bath was once a hub for shipbuilding, and it continues to hold onto that heritage today.
Early History of Bath
Before Bath became a shipbuilding town, it was home to the Kennebec Indians. It wasn’t until 1605 that Europeans arrived in the area when Samuel de Champlain explored the Kennebec River. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that Bath began to thrive.
Shipbuilding in Bath
In 1728, Jonathan Philbrook built the first vessel in Bath, and from there, the town’s shipbuilding industry grew rapidly. With the abundance of forests in the area, the town was able to produce the quality wood needed for shipbuilding. In 1818, the Bath Iron Works Corporation (BIW) was established. BIW was responsible for many successful naval vessel contracts, including the USS Wyoming, which was the first US Navy dreadnought.
The Maritime Museum in Bath
Today, the Maine Maritime Museum commemorates Bath’s maritime heritage. The museum is located on the banks of the Kennebec River, just a few miles south of downtown Bath. It offers a look at more than 400 years of Maine’s shipbuilding and seafaring history. Some of the museum’s highlights include the fully restored Percy & Small Shipyard, where visitors can learn about the construction of wooden ships, and the 1894 Bath-built schooner, Mary E.
Exploring the Town of Bath
In addition to the Maine Maritime Museum, the town of Bath has plenty of other attractions. The town center features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. One of the most popular attractions in town is the Chocolate Church Arts Center, which hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year. Visitors can also take a stroll down historic Front Street to see some of the town’s historic buildings.
Bath’s Maritime Culture Today
While Bath’s shipbuilding industry is no longer the major driving force of the town’s economy, it continues to have a significant impact on the culture of the town. The annual Bath Heritage Days festival celebrates the town’s maritime history with a variety of events, including a parade, live music, and an artisan fair. Additionally, the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust offers guided tours of historic shipbuilding sites and other landmarks.
Conclusion
Bath, Maine’s maritime heritage is still alive and well. The town’s shipbuilding industry may have declined, but it remains a significant part of the town’s culture. Visitors can learn about Bath’s shipbuilding heritage at the Maine Maritime Museum and observe it in the town’s architecture and attractions. From its early history to its thriving 21st-century culture, Bath offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into Maine’s maritime heritage.