SPECIAL NOTICE: The following text is excerpted from the book, History of Monson, Maine 1822 - 1972, and was first published on the occasion of Monson's sesquicentennial celebration in 1972. This revision to 11/22/96 offers some spelling and minor grammatical corrections. An actual updated version of this book, including material from the past 25 years, is due to be released in late 1997 in conjunction with Monson's 175th anniversary celebration. You won't want to miss it. It may be ordered by writing the Monson Town Office; PO Box 308; Monson, ME 04464. Special credits for original version to: Althea French and Gina Reed. Special credits for this revision to: Gina Reed.

HISTORY OF MONSON
1822 - 1972                     
                

EARLY HISTORY:

     Monson was incorporated as a town by an act of State Legislature on February 8, 1822. This
territory was first in the possession of Massachusetts. On February 27,1811, Massachusetts
granted 11,520 acres to Hebron Academy and on June 17, 1811, granted 11,520 acres to Monson
Academy. In 1820, Maine became a State.
     April 22, 1822, was the setting of the first meeting to form a town government. The
inhabitants of this town, in response to a warrant issued by Samuel Pingree, Esq., of Parkman,
met at the house of Whitney, Hyde & Co., for the purpose of completing the organization as a
town by the choice of the necessary officers. This they did by choosing Andrew Cushman,
Moderator; Samuel Whitney, Town Clerk; Samuel Whitney, Andrew Cushman and Abel Goodell,
Selectmen and Assessors; Lucius Hyde, Treasurer; Austin Newell, Constable and Collector; Abel
Goodell, Lucius Hyde and Chauncey L. Colton, School Committee; and filling the other offices by
the choice of good and true men. The number of voters in the town at the time of its organization 
was twentyone, namely: Amos Atkinson, Wm. Blunt, Amasa Chapin, Calvin Cushman, Geo.
Douty, Abel Goodell, Wm. A. Hyde, Lucius Hyde, Joseph Jackson, Austin Newell, Abel Packard,
Shepherd Packard, Asa Piper, Horatio Sherman, Isaac Tyler, Samuel Whitney and Samuel
Weymouth. The total population numbered ninety at that time. Monson continued to run on the
Selectmen form of government until 1943, when they decided to elect a Town Manager  to run
the  business of the  town.  The Town Manager also serves as Tax Collector, Road commissioner
and Treasurer. The first to be elected for this office was Lyle Towne who held the position until
1955. To date Monson has had four town managers.
   The first settler in this town was Joseph Bearce, who came from Hebron in 1816. He had been
here the previous year and felled a few trees. He commenced on lot numbered nine in the second
range. During that summer,  1816, he cleared a field and built a small log house. This was the first
house in town. It was situated a few rods north of the road now leading from our village to
Blanchard, and near where the road formerly known as  the ADudley  Road' leaves the Blanchard
Road. In the spring of 1818 he married Nancy Ricker of Paris. In the autumn of the same year
death claimed him for its first victim.
      While Mr. Bearce lived in this town, the path from Abbot to the settlement diverged from the
path leading  to Million Acres, now Blanchard, and finding a pair of moose horns, Mr. B. placed
them upon a post as a guide board.  From that time on they served  as a  guide post for the many
settlers traveling on these spotted trails. In 1882, William Weeks shot a moose and put its horns
on the post. He painted Million Acres on one horn and Monson on the other horn. On Aug. 25,
1914, the Piscataquis Historical Society held a dedication ceremony replacing another set. Several
pairs were stolen over the years and some were simply demolished from the elements. In June of
1955, still another pair was mounted on the iron post.  This was the sixth set of moose horns
dating from 1817 to 1955.  On Oct. 29, 1961, the D.A.R. Tisbury Manor Chapter placed a bronze
marker at the "Moosehorns" to preserve the historic landmark.
    In 1816, Geo. Doughty from Gray, and Simeon Irish, from  Hebron,  commenced to fell trees
in what has since been known as the "Witham Neighborhood". Mr. Irish built a small house that
fall and moved into it in 1817.  This was the first frame house in town, and was covered with
shaved clapboards, without any boarding. It was situated on what was afterwards known as the
Fogg place near J. B. Draper's the now abandoned Moosehorn to Blanchard Road. (The Draper
Farm was destroyed by fire. ) Mr. Doughty raised some crops on his land in 1817, and built a log
house, into which, with a wife and five children, he moved in March, 1818. These were the first
children in town. Samuel Rowe and wife from Hebron came to Monson the same year.
      In the fall of 1818, James Stanchfield came from Albion, and in February 1819, moved with
his family into the house built by Mr. Bearce. The house he built  was the first house built in the
east half of Monson, or on that part granted to Monson Academy, and the place where, for some
length of time, the people were accustomed to meet for religious worship and for other purposes.
This house was used for several years as a dwellinghouse, meetinghouse and schoolhouse. It
stood on the spot where Joseph Daine's buildings stood in 1872.  (Located in the general area
opposite the Finn Hall on Rt. 15.) 
     In the spring of 1819, Joseph Jackson and wife, with a family of eight children, came from No.
7, now Abbot. He had been here the fall before and felled some trees on the place occupied by
David B. Cotton in 1872 (now Woodlands about onehalf mile north of the Moosehorns on Rt.15). 
Here he erected a log house and lived several years; after which he moved into the east half of the
town, living on the farm occupied by H. C. Pullen  in 1872 (Now Stanwood Pullen's farm). The
same season, Samuel Weymouth, Amos Atkinson and Abial Packard
came with their families and commenced making homes for themselves. Mr. Packard bought Mr.
Irish's house, and Mr. Atkinson located on the north side of  Hebron Pond, this was the first
settlement north of the pond .
       The first birth in the town was a child born to Simeon Irish and wife, in the summer of 1918.
The second was in the family of Samuel Rowe, the next summer; and the third was a son of Amos
Atkinson, in the autumn of 1819, while they were living so far from neighbors, on the north side
of the pond.   A. Atkinson's child died suddenly between the age of two and three months old.
       In the summer of 1818, the trustees of Monson Academy sent Abel Goodell to explore the
township, thus to be able to recommend to others to come here to find or rather to make
themselves homes.
       In the fall of 1819, Capt. Amasa Chapin traded with the trustees of the Academy for one mile
square of land, in the east half of this town, taking the same in part pay for his farm in Monson,
Mass. (His home was built on the   present site of Edward Kugler's farm, N. Guilford Road.)  In
May, 1820, Capt. Samuel Whitney, Justin Colton and William A. Hyde, with their families, and
Calvin Colton and Lucius Hyde, leaving their families behind until the next winter, and Royal Day,
Austin Newell and Horatio Sherman, single men, seventeen in all, came from Monson, Mass., and
commenced a settlement, where the village now stands and in the southeastern part of  the town.  
       They left Monson  Mass. in April. They were about three weeks on the way, and spent the
Sabbath, May 7th, at Capt. Chapin's in Abbot, where they left the women and children for a few
days, coming here on Monday,  May 8th.  They stopped a few days in Mr. Stanchfield's house,
and then went to Mr. Atkinson's where they found a home until they could clear away the forest
sufficiently  to build a house, which was soon ready for their reception. This house stood on the
spot where H. G. Sherman's house stood in 1872 (now known as Louise Grover's home) and was
the first house in the village and the second framed house in town. It was the home of Capt.
Whitney as long as he was a resident of this town, and for several years was a temporary home for
quite a number of other families, they stopping here until they could construct some sort of house
for themselves.
     In the winter and spring of 1822 and 1823, no less than five families found a home in this
house at the same time. These were the families of Samuel Whitney, James Whiting, William A.
Hyde, Lucius Hyde, and this in a house twentytwo feet by thirty and unfinished. In this house, the
first birth in the east half of the town, and the first in the families from Massachusetts after their
arrival here, occurred on the first day of January, 1821.  This was a daughter to William A. Hyde
and wife. This child was known as Mrs. Catherine M. Giddings of Portland in 1872.
     In the summer of 1820, the dam was built across the outlet of the pond, thus flooding the little
pond and rendering more valuable the water power. At this time, the waterpower, with one mile
square of land (lot No. 10) was the property of Whitney, Hyde and Fay. In the summer and
autumn of 1821, they erected a sawmill and gristmill. A second gristmill was built by T. Davee,
from Blanchard, in the year of 1841.  Mr. Fay never came here to live and soon after sold out his
interest to Frederic F. Gates, who with his family, came here in the spring of 1823 to make a
home. Soon after this the partnership was dissolved, Mr. Whitney keeping the mills, Mr. Gates the
northern and Mr. Lucius Hyde the southern part of their tract of land.
     In the spring of 1820, about three weeks after the first emigrants from Monson, Mass. arrived,
Isaac Tyler came from New Gloucester and started to clear land.  On March 10, 1822, he and his
wife moved into his home.                                                                                                              
                                          In February, 1822, Andrew Cushman and wife with a family of seven
children, came from the Town of Oxford. Mr. C. had been here the previous year and felled trees.
Mr. Cushman's was the fifteenth family in town.  The same spring. Austin Newel brought his wife,
who he had returned to Monson, Mass., to marry; and with them came Hiram Vinton.
     In the spring of 1822, there also came from Oxford County, Cyrus Packard, William Bowker
and Cornelius Barrows. Zibeon Packard came about the same time. Abel Goodell who came in
1818 to explore the township,
left Monson, Mass., in the spring of 1821.  Leaving his family in Harmony, he came here and
cleared his farm. The next winter he moved his family as far as Guilford, where they stayed one
year. He was considered a resident in this town, voting and holding office in 1822, although his
family did not arrive here until May, 1823. 
      Although there appears to have been but twentyone voters here in April, 1822, and only
twentyfive votes cast for Governor in September of the same year, yet upon an old tax list of
1822 there were names of thirty-two resident taxpayers. The names on that list, not already
mentioned, are Nathaniel Bennett, Reuben Cushman, Samuel Tobin, George Hathaway and Isaac
Stone. Hathaway and Stone were young men employed that season by Capt. Chapin. The others
lived here with their families and probably came in 1821 or the spring of 1822.
     In October, l822, James Whiting and family, five in all, came from Wrentham, Mass., and lived
with Mr. Whitney and Mr. Atkinson, until Mr. Whiting could build a house, when they moved on
to the place known as the Whiting farm (now Bessie Doble's on Water Street).
     In the spring of 1823, Alexander Greenwood, Esq., who had been employed by the trustees of
Hebron Academy in 1811, to lot their portion of this township, and afterwards by Monson
Academy to survey and lot the remainder of the town, moved from Hebron and settled on the land
formerly known as the Watson farm (now owned by Andrew Sophrer of Dexter) and located
beyond the R. Mathews' farm.
     In the same summer Samuel Robinson, Zenas Scales ,Abel Janes and Daniel Wallace came and
settled in this town. In October of the same year Joseph Goodell and Dr. A. Davison came from
Vermont. Mr. Goodell lived on the present site of Lloyd Kelley's home and orchards and Mr.
Davison moved into Dea. Hyde's house, which had been built that summer. This house belonged
to J.P. Haynes in 1872 and was the second house built in the village. Here Dr. Davison lived until
1825, in the summer of which year he built the house which is the present home of Mr. and Mrs.
Fred Finley on Center St. and moved into it in the autumn. Sometime during this year Samuel and
Zebedee Thomas and John Packard settled in the west part of town. Daniel Briggs also came the
same year.
     In 1824, William Connor, Simeon Davee, John Crafts, Solomon Cushman, John Morton and
Oliver Eveleth, became residents of this town.
     In 1826, no less than nine men, most of them having families, moved into town. They were
Capt. J. Mathews, R. K. Packard, Joseph Barrett, Roland Taylor, Warren Dudley, Joshua Buck,
David Goodell, Benjamin Ward and John P. Packard.   In 1827 came Joseph Booth, H. G. O.
Harmon, George Dunham, William Goding and Abel Jewett.  In 1828, Abner Brown, William D.
Hoar, Milton Hoar, Thomas Towns and Solomon Bray. Mr. Bray probably had the largest family
ever living in this town, fourteen children, seven sons and seven daughters, all of whom lived to
be men and women.


 POST OFFICE:

     In the year 1824 or 1825, the Post Office in this town was established. Before this, all the mail
matter designated for this place stopped at Sangerville, and the inhabitants were obliged to go
twelve miles to mail or to receive a letter or paper. Frederic F. Gates was the first post master and
Hiram Doughty the first mail carrier.  Mr. D. was succeeded, in a short time, by Benjamin
Stanchfield, who every Saturday for two years, went on  foot to Esq. Kelsey's in Guilford,
returning in the same day, with the mail, and being obliged to cross the Piscataquis River twice
each way  in the best manner he could for there was no bridge  in order to leave the mail at the
Post Office in Abbot. For this service the government paid these men two shillings a trip, or a
little more than one cent for each mile of travel. They usually had some errands to do for the
inhabitants, for which they received some trifling compensation. As they approached the Post
Office, and sometimes as they passed the houses, they sounded a trumpet before them to inform
the people that the mail was coming, and that there was an opportunity for any one who wished to
send errands. In 1827,  the mail was carried by Deacon Fuller from Bangor to Monson, once a
week; and in 1831 mail arrived in Monson three times a week. After 1883 Monson had mail twice
daily except on weekends. On February 6, 1960, the new metro system was introduced and mail
arrives at 8 :00 A.M. and leaves at 5 :00 P.M. daily except  Sundays.
     The Postmaster was chosen according to the political party in power to which he belonged.
(Note: This no longer applies as it is a civil service position.) Therefore, the Post Office has been
housed in several buildings in town: 1882, the present C. Bickford home; 1889,  present Monson
Light and Power Co. Block; 19101911, present T. Moore Block; 1912, present M. L. &  P. Co.
Block; then, present Monson Variety Store; 1940's, moved to its present location in the T. Moore
Block. (Note: Recent Postmasters: Alner Gilbert, Edward Johnson, Harvey Gilbert, Harland
Johnson.) Erma Johnson Small is the present postmaster with the following part time employees:
Neola Jacobson, Eloise Stevens, and Dagmar Greenleaf.
     (Note of Interest -The shed now attached to the present home of Paul Allen on Garage St. was
built on Main St. after the fire of 1911.  It was used temporarily as a drug store and post office.)

FIRST ELECTRICITY IN MONSON:

     On January 25, 1908, Monson had its first electricity. The power was generated right here in
Monson by using water power from Lake Hebron.  Later, when the water couldn't generate
enough power for the Monson, Maine Slate Co. to run their machines, they purchased the power
from Greenville which was generated at Wilson Pond.  
     Monson Light and Power Co. was incorporated in December of 1907, with the Monson,
Maine Slate Co. owning all the stock. In June of 1944 Francis Marshall bought all the stock of the
Monson Light and Power Co. from the Slate Co. and bought the electricity wholesale from
Central Maine Power Co. Then in June of 1964, Central Maine Power took over the distribution
facilities in the town.

FIRST TELEPHONES IN MONSON:

     There are no records to confirm this statement, but it was said that the first telephones in
Monson, were at the Monson, Maine Slate Co. Quarry and quarry offices, and that it just "grew
like Topsy" from that time on. Mr. Fred Crane was superintendent of the Monson Slate Co. at
that time, and he took over the telephone business and carried it on as a private enterprise as long
as he lived, although it was never a paying proposition. The Southeast Monson Telephone Co.,
more commonly known as the "Farmers Line" was formed by the residents in the southeast part of
Monson and was connected to the outside through Fred Crane's Co. The telephone business was
sold in 1946 to the New England Telephone Co. which established a nice telephone office in
Monson in the present Donald Keene block (now used as a barber shop) and employed several
people at the time. On July 28, 1955, Monson went onto the dial system at 12:01 a.m. and from
that time on operators were no longer needed. At the present time, Monson cannot dial direct as
can many of the other cities and towns, but is in hope of being able to do so in the near future.

MONSON FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY:

     January 16, 1909, seven citizens of Monson petitioned the State expressing their desire to be
incorporated under the provisions of Chapter 57 of the Revised Statutes of 1903 and amendments
and maintaining a free public library. February 4, 1909, a certificate of organization of the
Monson Free Public Library Association was filed in the office of the Secretary of State at
Augusta, and said organization was duly notified. The first books purchased were books written
by Stevenson, Harte, Dickens and history books, numbering 90 in all.  By Feb. 6, 1910,  the
library had 636 books. In 1947, the Woman’s Club of Monson appointed a committee to work
with one of the State Librarians discarding all outdated books.  At this time, the library was
completely redecorated and the books catalogued according to the Dewey Decimal System.  It
was located at this time in what is now the Monson's Historical Museum.
     On April 19, 1969, the library moved into its new home in the new municipal building in back
of the town office. It contains approximately 5000 volumes. The complete interior facilities were
donated by the Moosehead Mfg. Co. Miss Vivienne Bray is the present Librarian;  Mrs. Van
Wentworth and Mrs. Mary Williams, Assistant Librarians.


                      MONSON'S SCHOOLS

     The early settlers were very anxious for their children to be educated and the very first schools
were held in private homes, this being before the town was incorporated.
     In 1823, a schoolhouse was erected near the center of the town. Traveling conditions being
very difficult, it soon became necessary to have neighborhood schools. In 182728, a school was
built in the Day District, and by 1848, there were schools in various localities. There were eight
rural school houses, those being: (1) Old Burma School  Located on Blanchard Road, abandoned
1906.  This building no longer stands. (2)  New Burma School  Located on the Blanchard Road,
opened in the spring of 1906. This building still ''stands and is privately owned and now called the
Wagon Wheels. (3)  New Long District School  Located on the MonsonGuilford road. Presently
it is known as the Finn Hall used by the Finnish Farmers Club.  This one was in use in 1907. (4)
North Neighborhood School  Located up by Drakes Corner, Elliottsville Road near Esmond
Richards' home. This building has tumbled down. (5)  Vinton School House - Located at the
corner of the Willimantic and S.E. Monson Roads.  This building was moved to its present
location across from Charles Strom’s home in Southeast Monson in 1921.  This is the original
building and has never been used for anything but a schoolhouse.   (6)  Red School House 
Located on N. Guilford Road below Day's Crossing and Southeast Monson Road. This building is
now gone (7) Barrows Falls School  Located between Blanchard and Barrows Falls.  This
building was in use  in 190607, but is now gone. (8) Old Long District School  Located on the
Guilford Road near Ladd Brook  below Arthur Nelson's house. Building now gone.
      Monson Elementary School  The first grammar school building called "Old Schoolhouse" was
located between Monson  Academy and the Church Cemetery. This building burned March 3l,
1899, and was rebuilt on the present site. This school being centrally located made it possible to
transport boys and girls to the village by bus. The District schools were closed by 1939.
       Monson Academy owes its birth to private enterprise.  There was a group of people who
were determined that the boys and girls of this little hamlet should have all the advantages of the
times. This group was made up of fiftyfour citizens who were later named as corporators.  The
corporators proved their eagerness for an institution of higher learning by subscribing $1,000.00
for the purpose of establishing an Academy for the education and improvement of youth. A
committee of three petitioned the Legislature for its incorporation June 14,1847, and the act of
incorporation was approved y Gov. John W. Dana, and can be found in Chapter 62 of the Acts of
that year. The corporate name was "Stockholders of Monson Academy", each subscriber holding
a number of shares corresponding to his subscription. 
       The corporators met for organization at "Centre School House" in Monson on Sept. 4, 1847.
Dr. Alpheus Davison was chosen chairman and Ephriam Flint, Clerk.  On Sept. 18, 1847 the
following were chosen: Lucius Bradford, Pres.  Zenas Scales, V. Pres.  Ephriam Flint, Clerk and
Aretus Chapin, Treas., with fifteen trustees.                                                                                    
                                                                The building was erected by Joseph Lombard, for
$935.51, the total cost including a heating system being $1,0l4.87 . The building was dedicated
Aug. 28, 1848.
       The Legislature granted the institution a half township, which was sold Dec. 2, 1852, for
$3,000.00. For several years the sum constituted the entire endowment of the Academy. The
original building was two stories high measuring 37 by 40 feet with the school on the ground floor
and the hall above being used for a recreation room and for concerts, lectures and other public
purposes. The Academy had a small, wellselected library.
     The first session of school was held in the fall of 1848 with 106 persons in attendance. 
     March 1860,  the Academy was burned to the ground.  Reconstruction was started
immediately and the framework of this structure measuring 37 by 56 feet was still uncovered
when fire again selected Monson as its victim, destroying the greater part of the village. In spite of
all obstacles the stalwart people of Monson finished building the Academy in 1860. The 1861
Legislature granted Monson Academy one fourth of a township in Aroostook County, which the
trustees sold Jan. 24, 1864, to George K. Jewett of Bangor, for $2,000.00. The interior of the
building was finished on the strength of this grant. The first session of school was held in the new
Academy in 1861, and continued under the direction of the trustees until 1872, when the
Academy united with the High School in exchange for a grant made by the town for this purpose.
The Academy was then governed by the trustees and the school committee.
     On July 1, 1892, the first floor of the Academy was made into two school rooms and the high
school was calcimined.
     On January 2, 1901, the Academy was made free for the students of Monson Village.
     On January 16, 1908, arrangements for a laboratory were made.
     March 16, 1922 $100.00 was spent for installing electric lights for the Academy.
     February 27, 1924, $3,000.00 was spent remodeling  the Academy.   
     The Academy celebrated its one hundredth birthday in the summer of 1947. 
     The same building was used with slight changes in remodeling the inside with uptodate
heating, lighting and plumbing facilities until 1968, when the Academy consolidated with School
Administrative District No. 68.
     The Academy and Elementary Buildings were remodeled to house the grades from
Kindergarten thru the sixth grade. The seventh thru twelfth grades travel by bus to DoverFoxcroft
to attend Grammar School and Foxcroft Academy.
       A gymnasium was one of Monson's big needs for a great many years. In 1940 & 1941, the
Monson Community Hall fund was organized and a campaign was launched to raise $20,000. By
August of 1941, $4,600.00 in cash and 50,000 feet of lumber had been donated. The plan was  to
have a wooden building with a slate roof. When $10,000.00 was on hand the building would be
started. Before the end of the year, World War II disrupted all the plans.  A few donations
continued to come in and the local organizations and school classes continued to make annual
contributions.  All organized campaigns were suspended for the next five years.
      A Monson Academy Alumni Association was organized in June of 1947. The first meeting for
organization was held at the Masonic Hall June 13, 1947 with Esther Pennington acting as
Chairman of organization for the Alumni Association. At that meeting the following were chosen
as officers: Pres.  Stanwood Pullen; V.Pres. Harland Johnson; Sec. Eloise Stevens and Oswald
Poole  as Treasurer.   Prior to this meeting the bylaws for the association were written by Millard
Emanuelson as early as 1937.  This group decided to back the Gym project. There  was $16,000.
in the treasury, and the Alumni Association hoped to double the amount. The project was known
as the Monson Gym Fund from that time on. 
     The steady rise in cost of materials and labor made the original type of building beyond reach. 
It was decided to have a prefabricated type of aluminum building. The sum of $22,437.50 was
needed to have an outlined building with foundation, walls and insulation.
     The structure was started and once more an appeal was made for subscriptions. The response
was generous, but there was only enough funds to carry on work for a few months.
     At the town meeting on March 11, 1950, the town voted to borrow the sum of ten thousand
dollars for the completion of the Monson Gym and the same to be paid back by the Alumni
Association in ten notes, with each one being for a thousand dollars plus interest.
     The same year monthly committees were appointed to raise at least $100.00 a month. The
enthusiasm with which these committees worked is a credit to any community. For five years
there was a project every single month in this little town of less than one thousand persons and
very seldom did a committee fail to raise the minimum, in many cases going way above the
hundred dollar mark.
     In March, 1951, Monson had the honor of having the late Harland Ladd, then State
Commissioner of Education, dedicate the new Gym. The last note on the Gym was paid June 13,
1955, and the note burned with fitting ceremony at the Alumni Banquet June 24, 1955.
     At one time, the seventh and eighth grades sold refreshments at recess time under the
supervision of the late Pete Gattrell, to earn money to add to the sum of  two thousand dollars to
buy stage curtains, chairs, bleachers. showers and other necessities.

 

                        MONSON'S CHURCHES

     In May, 1820, a colony came from Monson, Mass. These were men of character and influence,
men who had provided well for their families and who were determined to maintain the same high
standard in this new sparsely-settled town.
     On their first Sunday after their arrival, they had a meeting for religious worship in the house
built by Mr. Bearce. As far as anyone can trace, this was the first service held in Monson for the
purpose of worship with the exception of two funerals. Arrangements were made to have
religious services for the first Sunday in June at Mr. Abiel Packard's house, being more centrally
located for Monson people and for the families who had settled at Million Acres, now Blanchard.
The next Sabbath, they met again at the same place and also organized a Sabbath School. Services
were held here for the rest of the summer. For the next two years all worship services were held in
the home of James Stanchfield. By this time a schoolhouse had been built in the center of the
town, and public worship was held there until a church building could be erected.                           
                                                                                                                                                       
                  In August, 1821, Rev. John Sawyer visited Monson, and a Congregational Church
was formed consisting of seven members. It was not until Nov. 1824, that Rev. Lot Ryder came
to be the regular minister and was ordained in the barn of Capt. S. Whitney.  In 1831, the first
church building north of Bangor was erected and was dedicated as a Congregational Church. This
church, which was framed by R. K. Packard, and was the first building framed by the square rule,
was destroyed by fire in 1860, and rebuilt the following year.
     August 10, 1827, marked the founding of the Baptist Church in Monson, with 14 members. 
The meeting house was erected in 1845.  During the pastorate  of the Rev. Joseph Grossa,
(19181924) the church was remodeled, being raised two feet with a concrete subfoundation and a
back upper foundation. A furnace, the gift of Mrs. Brown Steward, was installed in the basement
and the  oldfashioned pews were replaced by new ones. The old windows were replaced by lovely
stained glass memorial windows. A vestibule was built onto the front of  the building with one
large entrance. The belfry and steeple were raised and the church was redecorated inside and out.
    The Baptist and Congregational Church began holding united services in 1933. Church was
held in the summer for six months in the Baptist Church, and in the Congregational Church in the
winter of the remaining six months, with the Rev. Martin Sorenson officiating.                               
                                                                                                                                                       
                      After 10 years of planning the two churches (Baptist and Congregational Churches)
merged their buildings into one welldesigned structure on August 14, 1959, to be called the
Monson Community Church.  In May, 1958, a building fund campaign was launched to finance
the joining of the two churches. By late November of that year the new foundation for the Baptist
Church at the Congregational Church site on Main Street was completed and the church, minus
its steeple, was on skids ready to be moved.                                                                                    
                                                                                                    Through donations and sales
during the year, the move was possible in the spring of 1959. The Rev. Donald F. Blanchette was
pastor at the time.
      The church members who helped to make the merger possible were: George (Bill)
Wentworth, Record Pullen, Mrs. John Durham, Mr. and Mrs. Philip Knight,  Mrs. Clifton
Weymouth, Miss Vivienne Bray, Mrs. Arvid Anderson and Mr. and Mrs. Sherwood Johnson.
      One year later, to the day, on August 14, 1960,  the new sanctuary was dedicated.   Rev.
William R. Huber was minister at the time of this dedication. The lights in the steeple were given
in memory of Samuel Pennington by Mrs. Esther Pennington. On August 20, 1961, Dr. Charles
Gilky dedicated the pulpit in the sanctuary in memory of Dr. Shailer Mathews.
      In the summer of 1960, plans were made to make the Congregational Church Building into an
Educational Building with three classrooms, a lounge, and restroom downstairs with an
auditorium upstairs.
      $1,000.00 was left to the church by Mrs. Sarah Huff. This money was the "starter" for the
Educational Building. The Committee borrowed $3,000.00 from the Guilford Trust Company and
the carpenter, Mr. Clarence Case, started the work.
      In March of 1961, the Educational Building was dedicated, and the United Circle donated the
lounge chairs to the church.
      Water and rest room facilities were installed in 1962.
      In 1963, the final payment on the $3,000.00 note was made.
      In the fall of 1966, the Monson Community Church joined with the Abbot and Sangerville
Churches and formed the S.A.M. Larger Parish. Before this the Churches could not afford to hire
a full time minister and relied on inexperienced students who could only stay for short periods of
time. After forming, they were able to hire Rev. Douglas Brayton as full time minister devoting
his time equally between the three churches. The S.A.M. stands for Sangerville, Abbot and
Monson.
      1971 brought the completion of the kitchen and dining room area, giving the various church
and town organizations a place to hold their activities.
      It was about 18741875, that the Swedish people began coming to Monson, most of them
working in the slate quarries. The Swedish people did not understand the language of this
country, and wanting to worship God  in their own tongue, they built a Swedish Mission Church
in 1890. Some of the members of this church were Lutheran, which is the State Church of
Sweden, and some held other beliefs. There was a break in the organization, and in 1892 the
Swedish Methodist Church was built. From that time on the Swedish Mission Church was known
as the Swedish Lutheran Church. Both Churches had Swedish ministers and conducted their
services in their native tongue. There were services in these churches for many years. The
Saturday night Church suppers which were held in the members homes were very popular. The
Swedish Lutheran Church on Wilkins Street was sold to the American Legion in 1946 and made
into a Legion Hall. On Dec. 8, 1970 the American  Legion sold the hall, and it is now privately
owned. The Swedish Methodist Church was sold to the Assembly of God, which is the church
located on Water Street, and is now known as the OpenDoor Full Gospel Church.
    There were a few Universalist people in town in 1884. A parish was organized, and a few
services were held. A Ladies Circle was organized, and a fund raised which was turned over to
the Universalist State Convention,  held in trust for Universalist work in Monson.
     The Congregational Parsonage was located between the homes of Charles Brown and Robert
Greenleaf on  S. Main St. This building is now owned by D. Luce.  The following is a list of the
church organizations:
                                           Inactive                                  Active
                                     Stella Grace Philathea           Youth Fellowship
                                     Baptist Circle                        United Circle
                                     Congregational Circle            MargaretLister Philathea
                                     Entre Nous Club                                                                                        
                                                                                  
                                     Swedish Mission Circles



BUSINESS HISTORY

 SLATE QUARRIES:

        The summer of 1870 is a date that changed the pattern of living for the inhabitants of
Monson.  As William Giffith Jones was driving his horse along and gazing at the countryside,
suddenly he saw slate. Mr. Jones, having come from Wales, knew slate and its commercial value.
Bill bought the land from a hotel keeper and started the development of the first slate quarry in
Monson within a few days. The first slate quarry was called the "Eureka" which means, "we have
found it". Thus started the industry that was to be the main source of livelihood for Monson's
inhabitants for many years to come.
      The next quarry to be opened was called "Hebron Pond". This was operated by a Mr. Chapin.
A year afterwards it was sold to Henry Carter and the quarry was afterwards called "Carter
Quarry".
        In 1872, the "Norris Quarry” opened and was operated by Mr. Norris. He was the first man
to install steam power. The buildings burned in 1877.
        1873  Fred Jackson founded the Cove Quarry in which the machinery of the Norris Quarry
was installed.
        Also that same year the "Dirigo" was opened and operated by Dexter and Portland
companies.
        1874  Forest Quarry opened and operated by Salem parties.
        1877  Oakland Quarry opened and operated by John Tripp.
        The Monson-Maine Quarry was in operation in 1880 by Allen Williams and abandoned in
1943.
        1882  Kineo Quarry  operated by outside parties.
        1882  Burmah Quarry.
        18701875  Underground Quarry  operated Charles Folsom.
        1895  "West Monson"  operated by W. M. Jones
        1902  Mathews Quarry operated by Mr. Mathews
        1906  PortlandMonson Quarry.
        1910  "Farm Quarry" and Wilkins Quarry.
        1919  "Eighteen Quarry"  abandoned around 1922
        1922  There were three quarries in operation  Portland-Monson, Monson-Maine Slate Co.
and the General Slate Co.
        The Coleman Family, having the largest shares of stock, ran the PortlandMonson Slate Co.
until April 1, 1965, when it changed hands. It's now privately owned by the Tatko family. 
Monson slate is considered the finest in the world and is particularly famous for its color being
black. Monson slate is shipped all over the United States and into many foreign countries. A
couple of the more noted places it can be found is on the flooring of  the new Monson Town
Office. Along with the black slate from Monson,  there is a mixture of green and red squares from
New York and Vermont quarries. The floor of the Northeast Bank of Guilford, Maine, also has
added the beauty of Monson slate to its floors. 
        Monson slate was used as the Kennedy Memorial stones marking the resting places of the
slain President  John F. Kennedy and two children at the Arlington National Cemetery. St.
Patrick's Cathedral in New York City also has a slate roof made from Monson slate.

MONSON RAILROAD:   
                                                                                                                                                       
                                                                                      In the early days transportation was by
foot, horseback or a team of oxen. Later came the stage from Bangor to Greenville.  In 1871, the
railroad company of Bangor hired a man to survey a road from Guilford to Greenville. The road
he surveyed would have run between the saw mill and the G.A.R. Hall (now Monson's Historical
Museum), and through Henry Grover's orchard (below where Louise Grover now lives). But soon
the people found out that the Railroad Company had sent a surveyor to survey a road following
the Piscataquis River from Guilford to Greenville via Blanchard. With this misfortune the
townspeople later felt that they needed some means of transportation. In June, 1883, our little
narrow gauge railroad, which was six miles long running from Monson to Monson  Jtc., came into
existence. The equipment, which was original or close to it, consisted of two engines, one
combination car, 28 flat and box cars, one snowplow and one spreader. It was commonly known
and called the "Twobysix",  being two feet wide by six miles long. It can be found in some
reference books that the Monson Railroad was 8.16 miles long when it's only 6.16 miles from
Monson to Monson Jct.. However, it was necessary to add the extra two miles of tracks going
through to Eighteen Quarry which was beyond MonsonMaine Quarry.
       The first two engines number 1 and 2, 044T were Hinckleys and were built in 1882. The next
two engines were numbered 3 and 4. No. 3 044T was built by the Vulcan Iron Works in 1912 as
was No. 4 044T which was built in 1918. The latter two were nearly identical except that No. 3
had one stirrup to lift you up into the cab whereas No. 4 had a double step. The railroad was  
owned by the MonsonMaine Slate Co., and its primary purpose was to haul slate from the quarry
to Monson Jct.  It also carried passengers, mail and freight. The “Peanut Roaster", as we fondly
called the little train, never turned around. She always backed the whole six miles from Monson
Jct. to Monson Station. The narrow gauge railroad was chartered in 1882, built in 1883 and
abandoned in 1945.
     Bus service was in existence in 1955 and ceased functioning in 1958, operated by Hasey's Bus
Lines.
     The first store in town was opened in 1825, belonging to Oliver Eveleth. Later that same year
Solomon Cushman opened a store. They remained the only two traders until 1830, when T. S.
Pullen from Winthrop came to Monson and started his own trade. From that time on Monson's
businesses have continued to grow.
     After the fire of 1860,  Mr. Aretas Chapin, son of one of the early settlers, constructed a hotel
holding fast to all the principles of Temperance. This hotel was burned in 1882.
      In 1886, Monson had a Refrigerator and Butter Box Factory. The wooden boxes were lined
with slate, the theory being that slate kept out heat and retained the cold. The project was not a
success.

MOOSEHEAD MFG. COMPANY:

    After the closing of the Monson, Maine Slate Co. in 1943, a Board of Trade was formed by the
merchants for the purpose of interesting an industry to locate in town.
    In 1945, the Moosehead Woodcrafter's plant in Greenville was destroyed by fire. It was
rumored that they did not plan to rebuild in Greenville. The Board of Trade then met with the
officials of the Moosehead Woodcrafters and they agreed to locate in Monson for $50,000.
     The Board of Trade called a meeting of all interested citizens and it was decided to finance this
venture by selling shares of stock. The quarry buildings were purchased, remodeled, and work
was begun at once. The Woodcrafters made a wooden chair with a seat and a back of webbing.
The Woodcrafters operated about a year and a half and failed, leaving Monson shareholders
with nothing but worthless pieces of paper. The spirit of  the founders of Monson showed in this
generation, and a Creditors Committee was formed. The stockholders  raised twenty thousand
dollars more and the plant operated for another six months, but could not keep going.
      The situation was really looking black when John Durham of Belfast, Maine, became
interested in the project. Mr. Durham had formerly been employed by Diamond Match Co. for a
number of years and as he says,  his job was "putting sick factories onto their feet again".               
                                      
      The Board of Trade appealed to the stockholders and ten thousand dollars was offered to
John and Tolford Durham to take over this "sick plant". The Durhams invested heavily in the
plant and put long, hard days trying to straighten out a very bad situation.  
      John Durham had to learn the furniture business from the bottom up. It was "nip and tuck" for
the first three years; then things began to look brighter.
     In 1954, the Moosehead Manufacturing Company was able to pay a dividend to their
stockholders.
     On October 29, 1959, Moosehead Mfg. purchased an abandoned woolen mill in
DoverFoxcroft to extend the production of their beautiful furniture and opened for business in
1960. Both plants today have roughly 200 employees.
     The company has sales offices in New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco
with showrooms in New York and North Carolina.
      Tables and chairs are the Monson plant's major production, while the DoverFoxcroft plant
manufactures upholstered and bed room furniture.


             1972 MONSON BUSINESSES WITH THEIR EARLY
                       HISTORY AND FORMER OWNERS

     MILTON BARTLETT'S GULF STATION  The land and buildings owned by  French &
Curtis  they bought the land from Arthur Bessey in 1956. The first manager  John Ruksznis
followed by Ronald Clukey, Maurice Davis, Frank Templeton and in 1967, it was opened by its
present operator Milton Bartlett.

    YANKEE TRADER  The present building was built for Daniel Champion in 1935 by Percy
Smith and was then known as Champion's Filling Station. It was late acquired by Arthur and Edna
C. Haggstrom and in turn sold to Alanson Robbins in 1971.

     MONSON GARAGE  The bottom story of the John Ruksznis home was previously located on
Main St. between A. Haggstrom and D. Williams houses. At that time the building which is now
Monson Garage was a barn situated in back of this house. After it was moved it was used as a
livery stable by P. W. Knight and then as a leased garage. Former business owners were: Archie
Greenleaf and Stanley Stevens; Archie Greenleaf; Daniel Champion; Will Champion (operated by
Leslie Robinson); Edward Dutra ; Lloyd Butterfield ; Hal  Stanchfield. The present owner, John
Ruksznis has been in business for 26 years.

     STORER'S HOME CARE CENTER  This was a hardware store owned by Billy Eldridge and
later by Luther Colbath. It was then bought by John Strom, then by Sam Ulman and used as a
meat store. The American Legion bought it from Ulman and they in turn sold it to Ira Bishop.
Next Arnold Grant owned it and he sold out to the present owner, Berwin Storer. (Note: The
Civil Defense had a lookout tower built on top of this  building during World War II to report
airplanes that passed the area.)

      J & J GENERAL STORE  Attorney John Sprague's house stood here before the 1910 fire. It
was rebuilt by Arthur Brown and made into a general store. It was then taken over by Clarence
Brown. The block was sold to the following people in the proper sequence: Ethel & Arvid
Holmquist, Paul Hoyle, Laurice Goodwin, Joseph &  James Quartararo and the present owners,
C. Leavitt and James Quartararo. (Rent upstairs.)

      MONSON LIGHT AND POWER BUILDING  In 1889, C. W. Folsom had a drug store on
one side of the building, and a Post Office was on the other side. Roy Hescock had the drugstore 
Post Office when the building burned in the 1910 fire. In 1912, it was rebuilt by Alner Gilbert.
Since that time it has been used as a Variety Store, A&P Store, Grocery Store and Post Office.
     The annex was used as a garage. It is now owned by Francis G. Marshall as an office and
storage. Rents upstairs  vacant.

      POOLE'S MARKET  Former owners  Ladd, W. A. Bray, Arthur Bray, Nadeau. Oswald
Poole bought it from Nadeau. It has always been a grocery store. It was damaged by fire in 1955
when Nadeau owned it. Rent in back was gutted by the fire and was removed. Rent upstairs -
vacant.

      MASONIC BLOCK  Burned in 1911. Arthur Brown had a store on the street level and a
house owned by him was located out back of the Masonic Hall. A stable was underneath which
also burned. Rebuilt. The first floor  housed two businesses. One side was a hardware store with
the following proprietors: Bill Eldridge, George Pullen, and Gordon Hall. The other side has been
used as a restaurant, office and dress shop. Second floor  Banquet room, Dentist and Doctor's
offices, Barber and Beauty shops and club rooms. Third floor  the main hall was used by the
Masons, Odd Fellows, Rebekahs and Star.
     The building was damaged by fire July 12, 1969, and is now vacant.  The present owner of the
building is Edward Adams.

     MONSON VARIETY STORE  The fire of 1911 started in this building. At this time Sam
Hughes had a clothing  store and barber shop housed here. The rent upstairs was occupied by
Storer Flint who died in the fire. A bowling alley was in operation in the basement. The building
was rebuilt by Henry Grover for Edward Johnson and was used as a grocery store then a Post
Office.
       Rent upstairs remodeled. Purchased by Evold Jorgensen about 194445 and is now owned and
run by Madeline Jorgensen .

     TERRIS MOORE BLOCK  Alner Gilbert sold the building, which presently houses the Post
Office and Coffee Shoppe Restaurant, to Roy Hescock after the 1910 fire. R. Hescock had a
drugstore and Post Office there which burned in 1911. R. Hescock rebuilt in the same spot, and
housed a drug store on one side with a Barber Shop on the other side of the building. Hescock
then sold it to Aubrey Williams who ran a drugstore with a Post Office in operation on the other
side at that time. The building is presently owned by Terris Moore, who lives in the upstairs
apartment.

       BLUE GOOSE  Owned and operated by Joe Davison as undertaking parlor. Burned in 1911 
Rebuilt and  used as undertaking parlor. It was then used as a feed store by Guy Hammond 
Danny Guilds then had an antique store called the Blue Goose. It now belongs to Edward Adams
who uses it for storage.

       VAINIO BUILDING  This building belonged to Jesse Rogers then Harry Daw. H. Daw had
a grocery store. Rent upstairs. This building burned in the 191l fire. Rebuilt. After Daw died
Harry Hughes had a grocery store  Then Austin Robinson  grocery  store vacant.
       Galen Vainio now owns the building which he bought in December 1969 and is his residence.

      DONALD KEENE BUILDING  Built after 1897 fire. Owned by Orrin Rice and used as a
barber shop and dwelling. Then sold to D. Keene who had a barber shop on one side of  the
building with a bakery, that now houses Dr. Isaac Nelson's office on the other side. Rent upstairs 
vacant. (Note: the telephone office was once housed here when operators were employed.)

       MONSON LAUNDRAMAT  This building belonged to Coombs & Johnson between 1883
and 1885 and it burned in 1897. Henry Grover owned it about 60 years ago and used it as a
Country Store. H. Grover's son, Merton Grover then ran a bakery and later opened a saloon. 
Louise Grover sold to Humphrey in 1963. Humphrey in turn sold out to Laurice Goodwin who is
the present owner.  Rent upstairs.

       KNIGHTS STORE  1888 bought by P. W. Knight from C. S. Pullen & Co. and was known
as P. W. Knight & Sons (Amos & Henry). It was always used as a Dry Goods and Clothing Store.
Rent upstairs is presently occupied by Katherine Knight.  Store is closed.

      TOWN HALL (GAR BUILDING)  First building built after the Civil War. Destroyed in the
fire of December 28, 1888. Rebuilt. The annex built in the 1930's by  W.P.A. men. The GAR
turned the building over to the Town of Monson in the early 1940's. When the town owned it they
housed the Town Office, Fire Dept. and Public Library on the first floor. Second floor  was used
for many activities. In 1972, the town deeded it to the Tisbury Manor Chapter D.A.R. and it
presently houses Monson's Historical Museum. (Note: In 1889 the town meeting hall was located
in [Tarr] Spencer's Hall.)

       WAYMOUTH'S GARAGE  Located on road to Greenville. Built by Dennis Weeks for
Arthur Day in the late 1920's. Arthur Day owned and operated it until 1942. Closed from 194245.
Reopened by A. Day and run for a short time then sold to Earl Waymouth in late 1940's who
operated it as a garage.  Business closed by  Waymouth in 1971.

         DAIGLE & DAIGLE  Built by Patrick and Jerry Daigle. Opened in the summer of 1970.
Hardware and  lumber goods. Located on Rt. 15.

         MONSON SPRING WATER CO.  This was originally started by A. W. Chapin for his own
use who was then the owner of the building which presently houses Brown's Nursing Home. Will
Bray bought the water company from Percy Smith on Dec. 4, 1925. W. Bray then to Maude Bray
on Oct. 8, 1945. M. Bray in turn sold it to Elwin & Marguerite French on Oct. 25, 1948.
          On April 8, 1955, E. French sold his half to Esmond Richardson. E. Richardson & M.
French sold out to Thaxter Jones on June 20, 1962. In July of 1968 a town meeting was held and
it was voted to buy the Water Company for $6,000.  On Oct. 1, 1968,  the Town of Monson took
over the Water Co. from Thaxter Jones. The town owns the company at the present time.

         C. V. (TAD) TURNER, INC.  Forest products and general trucking, bulldozing, shovel,
backhoe, crane work, and excavating. Located on the William Hughes Farm on the Willimantic
Road.

          INSURANCE:
Francis G. Marshal  Hartford Insurance Co. and Monson Light and Power Co.
Robert E. Lander  General Insurance
Stanley A. Robinson  insurance and real estate broker
          FOREST PRODUCTS:
Merton Carr  woods operator
Bjork Bros.  William and Harlan  woods operators
Robert Brown  pulp buyer
Wayne Reed  pulp and logs
Hollis Nelson  woods operator
Lloyd G. Kelley  building camp roads and backhoe work
Kelley Bros.  apple orchards
C.V. Turner  forest products and contractor 
 
       BEAUTICIANS:
Me Me's Beauty Salon  Amelia Daigle, prop.
Jo L's Toppe Knott Shop  Joyce Lander, prop.

      MISCELLANEOUS:
Phyllis Ruksznis  bakery
Raymond Anderson  painter (buildings)
Berwin Storer  painter (buildings)
Dennis Casey  "Wildwood Camp Ground" Monson Pond
Herbert Bishop  snowmobile dealer  Bishop's Great Outdoors
Joyce Kelley  antiques
Brown's Nursing Home  Raymond Bishop, prop.
French's Boarding Home  Marguerite French
Robert L. Greenleaf  electrician
Robert Leavitt  electric motors
Olive Hammond  seamstress
Leon Piela  carpenter
Lawrence Hammond  bookkeeper
William Erickson  crawlers (bait)
Earl Waymouth  live bait
Ed and Audrey Higgins  live bait
Kendrick Benton  photographer
Gerry Weymouth  artist and teacher
Elinor Brayton  artist
Mrs. Elizabeth Seitz  The Shell Studio
Coffee Shoppe Kahvila  Helen Johnson, prop.
Bessie Doble  antiques
Patrick & Jerry Daigle  carpenters
Edna Haggstrom  knits and crochets articles for sale
Harry Lindie  radio repair
F. Elwin French  repair shop and makes novelties

     TWO ACTIVE FARMS:
John Sandberg  Southeast Monson
Forrest Stevens  ( Old Steward Farm) Southeast Monson























                 NEW MUNICIPAL BUILDING

   On February 14, 1968, the town approved an earlier proposal of building a new municipal
building to house Monson Town Office, Library, Fire Department, highway Dept. and Youth
Activities room. Ground was broken in April of 1968 for the new building which was designed by
Dan Edgerton at the site of the former Willer Hotel. The cost of the new building was $39,200. 
On June 16, 1969, open house was held dedicating the new addition to the town.

               FIRE DEPARTMENT HISTORY

    Prior to the organization of the Monson volunteer Fire Department, the town had no fire
fighting equipment and depended on the help of the townspeople.
    In 1877, Alvin Gray, who was the selectman, bought an engine, and an old hand tub and some
hose for $400 which the town appropriated for that use. At that time, much was said against the
purchase until the fire of 1897 which burned the buildings from the canal to Knight's Store. This
section was rebuilt as follows from Knight's store to the canal  Grover's now the laundramat
owned by Laurice Goodwin; Orrin Rice  now Donald Keene block; E. McIver  last known as
Arvid Anderson's Store which was demolished in 1966;  J. Davison  now Edward Adams and
used for storage. The first fire apparatus is in a museum in Meredith, New Hampshire.  
    The Monson Fire Department was organized in 1937, with Dennis Weeks as Chief, and sixteen
members who
were Arthur Day, Merton Grover, Clair Sargent, Stanley Stevens, Cliff Simpson, Henry Knight,
Erick Erickson, Arthur Haggstrorn, Fred Berry,  Anselm Swanson, Paul Jackson, Guy Hammond,
Thomas Mountain, Elwin French, Robert Benton and Eugene Bickford.
     The first fire house was in the old GAR Hall known  as the old Town Hall on Main Street and
remained there until 1968 when the new Municipal Building was built. 
     In 1937, the first motor driven fire engine was purchased which is still being used today. The
department presently has two fire engines, two tank trucks and an Army Surplus truck. An alarm
system was installed on the top of the old town hall building. Prior to this the church bells were
used as a means of an alarm. On May 3, 1946, Arthur Haggstrom became Fire Chief, a post he
held until March 28, 1961, when John Ruksznis became Chief and who holds this office at the
present time.
     The fire department now consists of 20 men who attend regular meetings and training sessions.
     Monson has been the victim of many fires over the years. In May, 1824, a fire which started on
what is now the common, where the forest was being cleared away, threatened to destroy what
buildings there were in the vicinity. All the help that could be found worked hard for a day and
night to save the mills, two houses and one or two outbuildings then standing where the village is
now.
     Then another fire struck the town in the autumn of 1825. This fire swept across a large portion
of this state destroying great tracts of timber land. Many of the buildings were in danger, but
through strenuous efforts, none were destroyed.
     Again in the spring of 1831, the village was threatened once more.







THE GREAT FIRE
(Taken from the 1914 Pharetra)

        It is quite a look backward over the nearly fiftyfour years since the great fire in Monson.
Within this period Monson has been visited by a number of serious conflagrations but none of
them has destroyed so large a proportion of the buildings as that on May 27, 1860, which swept
away most of the village. Few who were then of adult age are now living, and those who were
then children are well along in years.
         Prior to 1860, Monson enjoyed a remarkable exemption from serious fires. The town in
common with others suffered from the great forest fires of 1825, but from 1818 to 1860,
according to Reverend Charles Davison's semicentennial address, only four dwelling houses had
been destroyed by fire; namely, that of Samuel Rowe in the winter of 181819, that of Calvin
Colton in the spring of 1823, that of George Doughty in 1836 and that of Alexander Greenwood
Houston in November, 1852.  For seven years after this last fire the sound of the fire bell had not
been heard. Its silence was first broken March 31, 1860, when the Academy burned, to be
followed by a greater conflagration not quite two months later.
         In May, 1860, the weather had been for several weeks warm and dry. There were no slated
roofs in Monson then and the shingles on the roofs were dry as tinder. Sunday, May 27, was a
calm and pleasant day with a light south wind.
         Shortly after the close of the morning services the Sabbath stillness was broken by the wild
cry of "Fire" and the ringing of the bell in the Congregational Church.  Looking across the little
pond from the window of my father's house, then standing on the site now occupied by I. P.
Wing's residence (now the home of Edwin Holmbom’s),  I saw the flames pouring from the roof
of the stable connected with Nelson Savage's hotel called the "Mansion House", the hotel being
on the site now occupied by Peleg W. Knight's store, and the stable a little
south and in the rear. In the few minutes required to reach the spot, the flames had spread to the
hotel and the inmates were throwing, out of doors and windows, beds, bedding and furniture in
frantic effort to save something from the wreck. The heat generated an active air current and the
flames with a wild roar devoured everything they touched in an incredibly short time. The burning
shingles were swept high in the air and were carried by the now accelerated south wind
northward, immediately setting fire to any roof on which they dropped. The flames mocked the
puny efforts to stay their onward rush with water pails and buckets  the only firefighting apparatus
in the village. 
     It was a spectacle at once grand and awful to see almost the entire village in flames at once.
The fire began about one P.M. or a little earlier and by three P. M. the work of destruction was
substantially complete. When the sun set on that eventful day, little was left in the central part of
the village but a mass of smoking ruins.                                                                                          
                                                        Except a small shop next north of the canal, every building
on the west side of Main Street from the Mansion Hotel north was destroyed.  This included
Tarr's and Knight's blacksmith shops. Tenney's wheelwright shop, J. H. Pullen's store and home of
Deacon Ward on the lot afterwards of A. S. Garland (now Gordon Hall's home). The fire also
destroyed a cabinet shop of Elias T. Andrews and dwelling of Albion Jackson, both on Pleasant
Street the latter on the site of Mrs. Hattie Crafts' residence (now known as Esther Pennington's
home) . Only a change of wind prevented the flames, from sweeping up Church Street. On the
east side of  Main Street every building north of the canal to and  including the Congregational
Church was burned, including Aretas Chapin's extensive farm buildings, Oliver Eveleth's store
(now Erma Small's home) and dwelling occupied by A. G. Houston (former D. A. R.Chapter
House) and the hotel called the "Monson House" (located in the general area of Berwin Storer's
home) then kept by Solomon J. Chandler. (Note: Aretas Chapin's farm was about where Louise
Grover's home now stands.)
         In the midst of the excitement a dwelling house on Central Street formerly occupied by
Honorable J. H. Rice on the lot afterwards of A. F. Jackson (now the home of Edward Laverty
which was formerly owned  by Ansel LaPointe), caught fire from the flying embers and was
speedily burned to the ground. In the space of  two hours, about forty buildings were totally
destroyed with a large portion of their contents. So rapidly did the flames spread that there was
little opportunity to save anything. The buildings destroyed included one church, two hotels, three
of the four stores, six dwellings besides shops, one law office, barns and outbuildings. The  
business part of the village was practically wiped out. Some of the sufferers were stripped of
substantially all their earthly possessions. Some had no insurance and others while less unfortunate
never recovered from their losses. To crown all, certain  disreputable characters  from outside
added plunder to the troubles of the sufferers.
         The total losses were estimated at $22,750 and insurance only $9,600.  At the scale of
prices prevailing this meant much more than the same figures would represent today and gives a
very imperfect idea of the magnitude of the misfortune which for the moment overwhelmed the
little village. The heaviest losers were Nelson Savage, $1,300;  J. H. Pullen, $2,800;
Congregational Society, $1,200; with no insurance; Solomon J. Chandler, $3,000; Oliver Eveleth,
$2,200; and Aretas Chapin, $3,000.  The figures are those given in the Observer at the time, and
those losses except in the case of  the church were partially covered by insurance.
         The business men sought such accommodations as they could find.  The post office was for
some time kept in the rear wing of Horace Flanders' house (now Tolford Durham's).  Some who
had been in business at Monson sought other fields of activity. It was many years before the
village regained its former prosperity.
         The cause of the fire was never certainly known.  One rumor attributed it to certain half
intoxicated persons smoking in the hay loft of Nelson Savage's stable. Others believed that the fire
was deliberately set by an offender who had been arrested in Monson shortly before and who
threatened vengeance upon the town. No attempt was made however (perhaps from lack of
evidence) to bring the culprit, if such he was, to justice.
     Incidentally the fire resulted in one important benefit in ridding Monson (let us hope forever)
from hotels in which intoxicating liquor was kept for sale. Shortly after the fire Aretas Chapin
opened a hotel (built on the site of the now Bartlett's Gulf Station), which until it burned on
March 25, 1882, maintained a consistent and  honorable record as a temperance hotel, and this
excellent record has, I believe been maintained by hotels since opened in Monson.
                                                                                                                  Dudley P. Bailey

     The alarm of fire rang at 4 a. m. on Friday the 28th of December of 1888. The engine house
with the G.A.R hall above, the building owned by Hilman Bros. and used as a furniture and tailor's
shop, and Mr. Boynton's fine new buildings, store and dwelling with barn adjoining and a dry
house filled with lumber belonging to the Monson Refrigerator Co. were swept away in an hour's
time. It was the most disastrous fire since 1860. The town lost the road machine for which it paid
$225.00 just two years before. The buildings burnt nearly together and almost everything in them
was destroyed. The hearse was saved. (Note: This is the fire which burned from Water Street to
the residence of Alvin Gray's  now A. Haggstrom's.  This event was taken from the private journal
of Miss Sadie Emerson, daughter of the Rev. Emerson, and loaned by her grandson, Vernon
Wilson.
         January 12, 1897, everything was burned from the canal to P. W. Knight's store. Later in
1899 the old hotel stable (situated where the Bartlett's Gulf Station now stands) burned.  Then on
January 6, 1910, the Lake Hebron Hotel which opened in 1882 was consumed by fire. In the
winter of 1910 (Dec. 11) fire destroyed all the buildings from the Bray Block (now Poole's
Market) on the corner of Pleasant and Main Street.
     Fire broke out on the night of Nov. 9, 1911, in the business section and swept everything from
the Spencer Block (former A. Anderson Block  now a vacant lot) to W. A. Bray's Store (now
known as Poole's Market) including the Masonic Hall.
     During the night of Nov. 3, 1919, there was a bad fire in one of the Railroad buildings, which
destroyed all the engines belonging to the road, leaving us now without any rail service. (Taken
from Alvin Gray's diary.) (Note: damaged engines, No. 3 and 4, repaired by D. Weeks.)
     On Nov. 5,1939, there was a fire at Clarence Brown's store (now known as J & J General
Store) which damaged the interior.
     If one should ask some of the older citizens in Monson what the longest night they've ever had,
they might recall the fire on December 17, 1942, when the fire started in the crating room of the
PortlandMonson Slate Co. From 8:30 to 10 p. m., they fought hard to save the building which
they did quite successfully. Then one hour later, fire was discovered in the big mill which  lasted
until 8 o'clock the next morning.
     A fire always ends up as a loss for someone, but perhaps one of the most tragic losses was on
March 2,1950, when Elwood Smith, his six children and his mother Harriet Smith were burned to
death. His wife was badly burned and hospitalized. Their house was situated between  what is
now  A. Swanson’s and A. Small’s on South Main St. (the latter sold to  E. Casey) The Smith
house was the oldest house in town at that time and was once located where Brown's Nursing
Home now stands.
       On Feb. 7, 1955, Poole's Market, then owned by Nadeau, was damaged inside by fire.
       The interior of the Masonic Hall which housed Pullen's Hardware and Robinson Insurance
Agency on the first floor, burned July 12, 1969.

 ORGANIZATIONS
AMERICAN LEGION POST No. 116 AND AUXILIARY
       TowneHolmbom Post No. 116

            The Monson American Legion was started on March 1, 1921 with 16  charter members:
Ira F. Bishop, August Peterson, Byron A. Kallgren,  Frank Larson, William Lindie, Thomas
Mountain, Lawrence Johnson, Paul Nelson, Elmer Lindie, Erick Holmquist, Robert Bigger, and
Byron W. Harmon. Ira Bishop was the first commander, and in later years, served as County
Commander.
            The Auxiliary was instituted on Dec. 12,  1922, with 38 charter members:  Lizzie Towne,
Mary Davis, Mary Larson, Edith Carlson,  Lottie Grant,  Margaret Bigger,  Elizabeth LeClair,
Elizabeth Bodge, Margaret Steward, Myrtle Homer, Florence Hughes, Addie Wing, Pearl Dore,
Ruth Larson, Edith Brown, Nettie Kallgren, Margaret Bishop, Margaret LeClair, Isabella Brown,
Amy Kronholm, Hilma Holmquist, Marjorie Hughes, Sadie Grover, Audrey Flint, Jennie Lindahl,
Ida Roberts, Esther Johnson Pennington, Madeline LeClair, Marion Billings, Rubena Johnson
Fenlason. Blanche Hescock, Whilhelmina Stanchfield, Estelle Lindie, Harriet Flint, Hattie Larson,
Judith Natycks Venott, Alice Jackson, Laurice Harmon.
    The Monson Post was named in honor of Oral A. Towne, who was killed in action July 22,
1918 in Bois, LeFere, France. On September 24, 1951, the American Legion of Monson voted to
change the name to TowneHolmbom Post No. 116 in honor of Oral A. Towne and Lawrence
Holmbom. The latter died in England during World War II.
    For many years, both the Monson American Legion and the Auxiliary held their meetings in
what is now Storer's Home Care Center. There, they held many food sales and card parties to
raise money and provide relaxation for their members. In 1925, they erected the flag pole that
stands in the square.
    In 1946 the American legion bought the Swedish Lutheran Church and held their meetings and
activities there until Dec. 8, 1970, when they sold the hall and became inactive. Previous to this
they held their fairs, suppers, and dances at this location. Each year they held a Field Day in by
Monson Pond which consisted of baseball games, skeet shooting, swim races, potato bag races,
etc. They also sold hot dogs at this annual event.
    Each year, past and present, the American Legion and Auxiliary have participated in the
Memorial Day exercises. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit No. 116 is still active.



DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION
  Tisbury Manor Chapter, D. A. R.

    The Tisbury Manor Chapter, D. A. R. was organized Nov. 5, 1952, with 19 charter members:
Elena J. Quillian, Genevieve J. Beckwith, Gwendolyn M. Allen, Beatrix J. Bray, Stella P. Hughes,
Edith D. Jackson, Grace J. Jackson, Faye D. Mithee, Agrandece R. Pullen, Priscilla C. Robinson,
Hazel P. Warran, Josephine S. Emanuelson, Eloise S. Stevens, Ada B. Wyman, Ivy P. Leighton. 
Bernice J. Young, June J. McDonnell, Melvina D. Jacobson and Marie S. Pullen.
    The first event of the Monson D. A. R., was placing a marker on the grave in the church
cemetery of Lydia Oldham Jackson, widow of Revolutionary patriot Barnabas Jackson, on Aug.
29, 1954. They also placed a slate marker on the grave site of Alexander Greenwood, surveyor of
the Town of Monson and surrounding areas, in the church cemetery on June 30, 1961.
      A small museum in the Old Town Hall (G. A. R. Hall) was established on Aug. 21, 1955.
Plans are being made to reestablish in this building this year it having been at the Chapter's Gray
House since 1959. (Note: The Museum opened officially on June 24, 1972.)
     The Monson chapter also sponsored the J. A. C. Clubs, D. A. R. Good Citizen Girls and the
American History Essay Contests in the Monson Schools until it's consolidation into S. A. D. No.
68.
      In 1959, they acquired the title to the Gray House which was bequeathed to the Chapter by
Genevieve Jackson Beckwith and maintained it until this year when the Town of Monson deeded
the Old Town Hall building to them for the museum.

           OTHER *PAST AND PRESENT ORGANIZATIONS

          *Gerry Relief Corp. No. 38
            American Sunshine Club
            J. E. Club
          *Sons of Veterans
          *Men's Club
            Woman's Club
          *Woodman's Lodge
          *Loon Club
            W C T U
          * Monson Doric Lodge No. 149
          *Onaway Lodge No. 106 I.O.O.F.
          *North Star Rebekah No. 38
          *Euclid Chapter No. 58 O.E.S.
            Finnish Farmers Club
          *G.A.R. Gerry Post No. 5
          *P. of  H. Juanita Grange
          *Farm Bureau (both men and women)
                                  Formed in 1919



YOUTH GROUPS:

                 Boy Scouts                          Girl Scouts                  Youth Recreation Club                   
                                                                                                                                                    
Troop No. 119                    4H Club (Started about 1927) 

                                                                                                                            
              MONSON CITIZENS DEDICATE HONOR ROLL
              (Taken from the Piscataquis Observer dated Aug. 3, 1944)
                                                               Written by Earle Jackson

       Sunday, July 30th, 1944, will go down among the outstanding days in the history of the
Town of Monson. The occasion was the unveiling, presentation and acceptance of the Honor Roll
erected to honor those in the armed forces in World War I and World War II from this town.
       The site of the Honor Roll is on the vacant lot owned by Doric Lodge, F. & A. M. between
Masonic Hall and the PostOffice. Early in the day a group of townspeople took it upon 
themselves to give Main Street, through the business section a good cleaning. This done, Main
Street looked spic and span.
       The residence of W. Harry Hughes being directly across the street and opposite the Honor
Roll, made a fine place to carry out the prepared program. The veranda at the Hughes residence
was prettily decorated with baskets of flowers and served as a platform for those taking part in
the ceremonies. A loudspeaker system was installed so all could hear throughout the business
section.
        Long before the hour set for the dedication exercises, two o’clock, P. M.,  people began to
gather and autos took available parking space. Arthur L. Bray very efficiently presided. Monson
band was assembled on the spacious lawn in front of the Hughes home.
        Very soon after 2 o'clock, Mr. Bray announced the opening of the program, a selection by
the band. Prayer was offered by Rev. Joseph Griffiths, pastor of the Methodist Church in
Guilford. The Honor Roll was unveiled and God Bless America sung by the all male chorus  Fred
M. Hescock, Paul A. Jackson, Guy O. Hammond, George P. Pullen, W. W. Pullen, Robert I.
Roberts of DoverFoxcroft, and audience.
        Mr. Bray next read the names on the Honor Roll and as the Gold Star Names were read, five
in number, three in World War I and two in World War II, beautiful baskets of flowers were
placed in front of the Honor Roll by  five girls  Lucinda Forbus, Janet Bjork, Carolyn DeSano,
Evelyn Simmons and Doris Nelson in memory of the boys who have made the supreme sacrifice.
This was followed by the playing of the Star Spangled Banner by the band.
       Mr. Bray introduced the guest speaker of the afternoon, Captain Brower L. Pernet of the Air
Force, Dow Field, Bangor, Maine. Captain Pernet expressed his great pleasure at being present at
this occasion and complimented the people of Monson for their deep interest  in erecting such a
beautiful Honor Roll. After another selection by the band, Chief Dennis C. Weeks of the Monson
Fire Department, sponsors of the Honor Roll,  presented it to the town and it was accepted by
Lyle C. Towne, chairman of the board of selectmen of the Town of Monson. The band played
several more selections and Rev. Griffiths pronounced the benediction.
  






THE HONOR ROLL

    The plot of ground where the honor roll stands had been previously leveled and seeded and is
now covered with green grass. Iron posts set in cement support the tablet which is seven feet
wide and eight feet high. The frame is of wood painted white, on either side a raised
victory V adorns the top with U. S. A. perpendicularly arranged below and the letters also raised,
these emblems being painted in gold color.
    The panels enclosed in the frame are of slate, the top bears the inscription  Monson Honor Roll 
on a field that has been sandblasted. The main panel is of slate 48 x 60 inches, in the upper section
the names of World War I veterans, 58 in number appear and in the lower section those of World
War II, 109 at the present time.  The names are in bronze and fastened to the slate back
ground. Plate glass covers the entire main panel.
    Much credit is due to the members of the Monson Fire Dept. for their untiring effort and hours
of work to complete this beautiful Honor Roll.


      SURRENDER OF JAPAN CELEBRATED IN MONSON
(Taken from the Piscataquis Observer, Aug. 23, 1945,
             Written by Earle Jackson)

    Elaborate programs carried out Tues. and Wed. nights--
    The citizens of this quiet little town, nestled among the beautiful hills and mountains of
Piscataquis County, were on the alert Tues. evening, August 14th, as they have been for the past
4 or 5 years, for the welcome news all have been longing to hear  the end of the war.  Early
evening broadcasts announced that at 7 o'clock important news would be given out and it is safe
to say that every radio was tuned in to get that announcement.  It came as scheduled and the
townspeople let loose the joy in their hearts in their own individual ways.
     The fire siren blew for a full 15 minutes, it sounded sweet to the ear, much sweeter than in the
dead hour of night for a fire. Automobile horns took up the refrain  throughout the town and in
the distance the powerful PortlandMonson Slate Co. whistle echoed back. The peal of the church
bells added to the noise.
      Monson band quickly assembled in front of the town hall and dispensed stirring music until
darkness covered  their music. An impromptu parade of happy mothers, wives, sisters and
sweethearts, as well as many children, grabbing anything they could make a noise upon, paraded
back and forth on Main Street and the band played on. At times the whistles, horns and noise of
the paraders nearly drowned out the band. Later during the evening several cannon shots
reminded the inhabitants that the war was ended. The American Legion opened their hall and free
dancing was enjoyed for several hours, music furnished by Frank Hughes, Alvin Cowan, Orman
Kronholm and Archie Johnson.
        For several days previous, this momentous moment  had been anticipated and a group of
business men had gathered to quickly formulate a plan for celebrating the glad news, if and when
it came. The final arrangements were left with George P. Pullen, president of the local board of
trade, and prominent hardware dealer and Eugene E. Bickford, the local efficient electrician.          
                                                                                                                                                       
                                               Wednesday, August 15th was Monson's big day and  the history of
the town will record it as a most outstanding. An overcast sky dashed the hopes of early risers but
in the early forenoon this burned away and the remainder of the day was most beautiful.
          A church service opened the day's program at 8:30 o'clock conducted by Rev. Ruth
Jackson, pastor of the United Church and held in the Baptist Church which was filled with people
who attended to give thanks for a victorious end to this most terrible war of all time.  Appropriate
hymns were sung, Mrs. George P. Pullen, organist. Scripture reading, Mrs. Jackson. The speaker
of the service was Rev. George Flower, pastor of the Assembly of God Church and his remarks
was listened to very attentively. A moment of silent prayer was given in memory of those who
have made the Supreme Sacrifice.
     At 10 o'clock a parade of the town was started with George P. Pullen leading dressed as Uncle
Sam, next came the Monson Band followed by Oral A. Towne Post, A. Legion including service
men and exservice men of  W. W. II. A thrill passed over the throngs of people on the street and
in the cars to see Sgt. Robert L. Greenleaf of the Air Force marching in the ranks, a prisoner of
war in Germany for 14 months. Troop 119, Boys Scouts, Eugene E. Bickford, Scoutmaster,
followed and two columns of women, many of them dressed in costume,
numbering more than 50 together with a lot of children. Last but not least was D. C. Weeks' truck
bearing an effigy of Hirohito.
     The line of march was upper Main to Center to Pleasant to Main to Tenny to Lower Main to
Water and back to the Town Hall where it disbanded at noon.
     The program for the afternoon was held at the bandstand on Monson Academy grounds.
Hundreds of cars parked upon the grounds and along Main Street to enjoy this program.
     The Program: --- Prayer, Rev. George Flower; salute to the flag, led by Troop 119, Boy
Scouts, Selection "Dawn in the Forest", Monson Band; singing "America", audience and band;
selection, "Faith of our Fathers", male quartet, Paul A. Jackson, Fred M. Hescock, Winifred
W. Pullen, George P. Pullen; address, Albert Boyer; duet, Rev. and Mrs. George Flower:
selection. "Stella  Polka", Paul Jackson, baratone and band; selection,  male quartet.
      At this point in the program all service men and exservice men were asked to assemble near
the bandstand and Arthur L. Bray, in behalf of the citizens of  Monson welcomed them and
assured them Monson deeply appreciated the fine work done in this war. Chorus singing led by
George Pullen, Mrs. Pullen, pianist, was entered into very enthusiastically and greatly enjoyed by
all. This program came to an end with Star Spangled Banner played by band.
     Special mention should be made of the address given by Albert Boyer, a veteran of W. W. II
and served in the Merchant Marines in W. W. II. His talk was timely and intensely interesting.
Monson is proud to have as fine a speaker among its citizens.
      The day ended with street dancing at 7 o'clock in front of the bandstand, this section having
been roped off and traffic routed via Center Street and this lasted until late into the night, music
being furnished by the same group that played the night before assisted by Urho Suomi, accordion
and Philip Knight, drums.
       A highlight in this street dance was the presence of  Mr. and Mrs. John R. Flint,
octogenarians, who tripped the light fantastic along with the teenagers. The burning of Hirohito
ended a great day for Monson.
      The committee did a fine job of arranging this day's program and the committee are very 
grateful to all who assisted in carrying out the program. Much credit is due the Monson Band for
their music and one committee man said "A band such as Monson possesses, aided greatly in the
celebration".

V-E DAY
(Note: the end of W. W. II was celebrated quietly
 in May of 1945.)





          MONSON ACADEMY CELEBRATES AUG. 23, 1947
   (Taken from Piscataquis Observer dated Aug. 28, 1947)
                Written by Earle H. Jackson

    The founding of Monson  Academy 100 years ago was fittingly observed Saturday by the
citizens of the Town.
    The parade was formed at Sears field near the former Monson Railroad station. Soon after 1
o'clock the line was ready to move, headed by State Police officer Harold Gleason; Uncle Sam in
costume (J. Record Pullen); color guard from the American Legion; Monson band, Earle H.
Jackson, director; Trustee's float; class of 18921893 (wagon); Winter Carnival float; Class of 
l902, 1905; Dramatic Club float; class of 1913, 1917, 1921; Amos S. Knight's car with the oldest
male citizen in town, Wallace E. Howard, 88; class of 1922, 1927; Merchants' float; class of 1928,
1932; Tenny Hill float; class of 1933, 1937; Monson Fire Department, Arthur E. Haggstrom,
chief; Class of 1938, 1943; Moosehead Woodcrafter's float; class of 1944, 1947; girl scouts on
bicycles, school boys on bicycles, doll carriages (decorated), boys and girls in costume.                  
                                                                                                                                                      
The floats were all very nice as were the many cars carrying the different classes, the bicycles
were decorated and the doll carriage section, numbering more than 25, was very pretty to view.
    The Tenny Hill float scheme was the Little Red Schoolhouse, teacher, pupils, school bell,
dunce and boys playing hookey from school fishing. This float took first prize; 2nd prize, class of
18921893; 3rd prize, class of 1913; 4th prize; merchants'  float.  
    The parade proceeded up Water St. to Main, to Pleasant, to Center St., to Main St., going
south to Tenny St. across to Main St., going north to the Academy grounds where the parade
disbanded.
    Immediately following the parade, the band gave a short concert in the bandstand on the
Academy grounds.  Their opening number was a stirring march, "Pride of  Maine", composed by
Heywood S. Jones, director of the Shrine band, Anah Temple, Bangor. Their next numbers were
"Dynamic Overture", Huff; and "Garden of  Dreams Serenade", Lincoln.  
    A public address system had been installed and President Stanwood R. Pullen of the Alumni
Association called upon Dr. Jesse Thomas of New York to offer prayer. Earl Hutchinson of the
State Department of Education, Augusta, was the speaker of the day and his address was listened
to very attentively by the large crowd assembled.
     The Academy building was open to visitors and registration of those entering was conducted
by members of the alumni. Many photos, diplomas, and graduation dresses of years gone by were
on display. From 5:30 to 7:00, supper was served in the Masonic banquet rooms by the
Community Church Circle and many partook of this fine meal.       
     At 8 o'clock an entertainment program was presented in the Masonic Hall. The program:
address of welcome, Mrs. Esther Pennington; response, Lawrence W. Rogers, class of 1905,
manager of school and library division of the Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc. New York, N. Y.;
selection, quintet, W. W. Pullen, G. P. Pullen, G. O. Hammond, F. M. Hescock, P. A. Jackson;
selection,  musical saws, F. M. Hescock and Frank Hughes; piano solo, Miss Corrine Johnson;
history of Monson Academy, Mrs. Donald MacPherson; clog dance, Frank Hughes; selection,
quintet. Piano accompanists were Mrs. Mabel  Pullen and Miss Pearl Sargent. Dancing followed
with music by the Four Joe’s, with nearly 300 in attendance.
     Special mention should be made of the Trustees' float, decorated in red, white and blue and
drawn by W. W. Pullen's span of horses with Mr. Pullen, President of the Trustees, driving. It
depicted the old M. A. school room with Donald MacPherson impersonating Prof. W. S.
Knowlton Seated at the old desk. Pupils, Irene Korsman, Beverly Ulman, Edward Simpson, and
Arthur Nesberg.  Further mention and description of  the 2nd prize award was that of a well
decorated surry, the driver was Andrew Bates of the class of  l893, and seated in the back seat
were Mrs. Ethel Hescock and Mrs. Mary Davis, class of 1892, looking charming in attire worn in
the '90's.
     A class showing loyal spirit was that of 1902, with all of their living members present and who
marched in the parade: Bessie Jones Thombs, Eda Johnson Anderson and Lilla Lambert Smith. 
The class of 1939 had the largest number registered. Prof. Ray Jones of  Baltimore, Maryland,
came the longest distance to attend. The Masonic hall and dining room were most attractively
decorated.
     Much credit is due the very efficient chairman, Esther Pennington, and her committee for
making this a red letter day in the history of Monson Academy. The first prize of $5 received by
the Tenny Hill group for their float was given by them to the Community Hall fund. (Note: the
two pictures printed were  The Red School House [Tenny Hill], and the Trustee's float.)
     On the Little Red School House float were Mrs. Maila Korsman, Mrs. Gertrude Donahue, Mr.
& Mrs. Jorma Ranta, Mrs. Lona Suomi, Mrs. Sadie Lewis; and the following children: Rena
Korsman, Eleana Ranta, Kenneth Donahue, Sonny Conley, Jerry and Janet Daigle, Barbara, Peter.
Robin and Peggy Weymouth.


OLD HOME SUNDAY

      Sunday, Aug. 24, 1947, will be observed as Old Home Sunday and it seems fitting that Rev.
Jesse Thomas of New Rochelle, N. Y., will be the speaker as he is the soninlaw of the late Dr.
Shailer Mathews who for many years delivered the sermons on Old Home Sunday.
       Following the church service those who desire to do so may take their lunches to the Pullen
farm for a picnic, weather permitting. Bray's bus will run.  Plan to make August 23 and 24th a red
letter day for you and your family.
        Soft ball game at 10:30 a. m. and 3:00 p. m. between a town team and Alumni team.
        $1.00 prize for best decorated doll carriage.  
        $5.00 prize for best float in parade.  
        General Committee: Chairman, Esther Pennington. Eloise Stevens, Oswald Poole, Dana
Williams, Arthur Day, Roy Davis, and Amos Knight.  
        Program Committee: Mrs. Dorothy Thomas, Mrs. Madeline Pullen and Mrs. Jeanette Hall.
        Decorating Committee: Mrs. Erma Johnson, Mrs. Helen Johnson and Mrs. Lurene Houston.
Sports in charge of  Oswald Poole.


                    HISTORY OF THE MONSON BAND
       (Taken from the history written for the 25th  Anniversary of the Band)

     The Monson Cornet Band was organized September 15, 1887, largely through the efforts of
John S. Greenlief, E. T. Hescock, and Walter C. Jackson. Mr. Greenlief was at that time leader of
Dyer's Band of Foxcroft. Mr. Hescock had been a member of the Abbot Band, and W. C. Jackson
had played in orchestra for about two years. Those present were H. E. Morrill, G. H. Wilkins, E.
T. Hescock, George Jule, Samuel Sanborn, E. H. Wheeler, F. M. Hescock, W. M. Knight, John
Hall, E. M. Pullen, and W. C. Jackson. The following officers were elected: G. H. Wilkins,
Business Manager: W. C. Jackson, Leader; H. E. Morrill, Assistant Leader; E. T. Hescock,
Secretary and Treasurer, and a committee was chosen to draw up a code of bylaws. John C.
Greenlief was engaged as teacher.
     The first lesson was given in one of the office rooms of the old Masonic building. The
following were present: George Jule, Samuel Sanborn, W. C. Jackson, E. H. Wheeler, F. M.
Hescock, W. M. Knight, John Hall, E. T. Hescock, G. H. Wilkins, H. E. Morrill, E. M. Pullen,
Lewis Hall, William Pennington and Roy Hescock. The instruments were picked up in different
places, several being purchased from parties in Milo where a band had just disbanded. The band
received one lesson each week from their teacher, and rehearsed one evening under the
direction of the leader. This was continued during the winter and such good progress was made
that on February 22, a concert was given with the assistance of local singers and players, at which
a good sum was realized. The lessons were continued until the last week of March, when Mr.
Greenlief decided to go West.
     The M. C. Band made its first appearance on parade, May 30, 1888, when they furnished
music for the Memorial Day exercises at Monson. On June 18, 1888, the ladies of Monson gave a
benefit from which some $42.00 as obtained. The first engagement out of town was August 17,
1888, when they played for a rally at Greenville. During the campaign the band played in several
different towns in the county and on Sept. 1st, with two other bands, played for a county mass
meeting at Dover, at which the late Hon. James G. Blaine was one of the speakers.
     November 13, 1888, Prof. H. R. True was engaged as instructor, and he gave them fourteen
lessons in all, and under his able instruction the band was much improved. At this time the band
was meeting in the G.A.R. Hall, but on the night of December 28, 1888, this building, with two
others, was entirely destroyed by fire. The band lost a cornet, two drums, and several music
books, and until the hall was rebuilt, they held their rehearsals in the schoolroom in the Academy.
     On May 15, 1889, they purchased their first uniforms from Henderson & Co., Philadelphia.
They were navy blue trimmed with gilt braid, and they made their first appearance on May 30,
1889. On July 4, 1889, the band got up a celebration, furnishing music, and in the evening having
a drama at Tarr's Hall. On April 22, 1890, the band gave a concert in which they were assisted by
the late Miss Mammie Bush of Foxcroft, whose whistling solos were a feature. On July 4, 1892,
the band furnished music at the opening of the Milo driving park, and as the bass section was a
little light at this time, the late H. G. Pratt of Foxcroft was hired for this job, and he aided much in
making it a success.
     Up to this time, the band had been purely a brass band, but now clarinets were added, which
was a great help to the organization both as regards to tone and efficiency, as they were now able
to take up music, before they were prevented from touching for lack of a reed section. About this
time the word "cornet" was dropped from the name, and the organization has since been known
as the Monson Band.
      In November, 1892, arrangements were made with Prof. W. S. Ripley of Boston, to come and
give the band lessons for a week, and he gave the first lesson on Nov. 7th. Every member was
present each night, and such good work was done that on the next Monday evening a concert was
given under the direction of Prof. Ripley from which enough was realized to pay for the lessons,
and the band was much benefited by this work. On June 28, 1893, the band accompanied Gerry
Post G.A.R. to Abbot, the occasion being the dedication of the soldiers' monument. On Oct. 21st,
they accompanied the same organization to Foxcroft for the purpose of dedicating a soldiers'
monument at that place. On June 13, 1903, a set of new uniforms were purchased from the
Cincinnati Regalia Co., Cincinnati, Ohio. These were dark blue, trimmed with black mohair braid.
July 15, 1904, the band accompanied Onaway Lodge to Guilford on the occasion of the
dedication of the Odd Fellows' Hall.
       In all these years there have been but a few players who have come in from other places, and
all additions had to be made from new material, started at the beginning, and worked up.  The
spring of 1905, brought a player of unusual ability.  Knut Felix Ohnan, who was Finnish, and a
baratone player equal to any in New England.  Having played for many years in the old country,
his work on this beautiful instrument was a marvel to all. With his help the band was able to
handle a much higher grade of music, and they soon became known as a concert band of much
ability. Mr. Ohman remained with the band about a year and a half. The band attended the grand
carnival at Dover, Aug. 22, 1908, at which there were ten bands present. One of the features was
the rendering of several numbers by a consolidated band of 209 players.
     On Sept. 9, 1910, the band attended the band carnival at Penobscot Park where nine bands
were present.  May 9, 1911, a new set of uniforms were bought. These were the regulation A. F
and M. uniform, and up to date in every particular.
     May 12, 1911, the band gave its concert and dance, with a good program, and the full band
furnished the music for dancing.       
     October 1, 1912, in company with three other bands, they furnished music for the Centennial
Parade and celebration of the Town of Foxcroft. The band played at every Decoration Day at
Monson since it was organized, and for several years for the memorial services of fraternal orders
in June.  
     There were many changes in the membership of the band over all the years, and in 1912, the
director was the only one of the original members that remained.
     At the close of the season of 1912, the following  made up the band: Earle H. Jackson, Frank
Wentworth, Levi Flint, Arthur Fogg, J. H. Gilbert, W. C. Jackson, G. L. Brown, Harold
Campbell, J. R. Flint, L. A. Thomas, Fred Stanchfield, Austin Brown, Frank Hughes, Carroll L.
Jackson, Fred W. Elliott, W. W. Pullen, E. W. Farrar, A. L. Farrar, H. W. Wing, Malcolm Dane
with W. C. Jackson as director.
     The band was under the direction of Walter C. Jackson for 34 years. W. C. Jackson's father
taught him to read music, and as there was no one nearer than Dover to instruct him, he taught
himself. He was chosen leader because he could play a little, and the others could not, as he
quaintly expressed it. Each winter he taught between 1020 pupils, each on different instruments.
     After the death of W. C. Jackson in January of 1922, the following directed the band: Carroll
Jackson, Frank M. Larson, Paul Nelson, Paul Jackson, and Earle H. Jackson.  
     From 1920 until its disbandment, the following are those members who participated in the
Monson Band:  (Note: dates of memberships were unavailable and we apologize for those names
that have been excluded through lack of information and unavailable records.)  

                                   Frank Larson                     Felix Mattson             Max Forbus                     
                                                                              
                                   Harvey Gilbert                   Evold Jorgensen         Francis Marshall
                                   Earle Jackson                    Roland Jacobson        Frank Wentworth
                                   Thayer Smith                     Carroll Jackson          Fred Stanchfield
                                   Frank Hughes                    Bill Jacobson             Austin Brown
                                   Paul Nelson                      Anselm Swanson             Oscar Nelson
                                   Milton Stanchfield              Frank Nelson                   Elmer Lindie
                                   Sam Ulman                       Walter Steward                Merton Grover
                                   Arthur Bjork                     Byron Kallgren                 Harry Wing
                                   Grace Nelson Nace          Leroy Jacobson                Junior Larson
                                   Robert Zimmerman           Lawrence Hammond        Ernest Farrar
                                   Kenneth Simpson             Oscar Ulman                    Alex Stromback           
                                                                                                                                                       
                  Arthur Farrar                    Fred Ellliot                       Maurice Lebree
                                   Donald Davis                   Thor Stromback                Swen Nelson
                                   Millard Lord                    Elwood Lord                     Lawrence Gilbert
                                   Horace Gilbert                 Pauline Gilbert Mattson     Merle Finley
                                   Edward Gilbert                Harold French                   Therese "Patsy"
Nelson Johnson

      Flag Bearers  Althea French, Carlene B. Bickford, Marion J. Sandy                                          
                             (for the years 1943, 44, 45)

     In the 1940's, the Monson Band traveled to Guilford and Abbot to play and march for their
Memorial Day Celebration.  The last uniforms were bought in the late 1930's.
     A bandstand was built about 1930 by the Monson Band under the direction of Frank Bray, on
the lot which was then owned by Fred Crane and where Lake Hebron Hotel once stood (the lot
which is now between John and  James Durham present homes).  The lumber was donated by
George Pullen and other townspeople donated time, labor, and other needed materials. Arthur L.
Brown, gave the address at the dedication ceremony. On June 21, 1944, it was moved to its
present location in front of the Academy building.
     Band concerts were held every Thursday night in the bandstand.
     Around 1950, one of Monson's most enjoyable asset was brought to an end. Many of the
instruments were donated to Monson Academy for use in school activities.



MONSON ACADEMY'S
STATE CHAMPIONSHIP BASKETBALL TEAMS

     Monson has been the home of some of the finest basketball teams in the state. Three Monson
Academy basketball teams proved themselves by winning the State Championship title in 1909,
1932, and 1968.
     In 1909, the Monson Academy five were: Elmer Bigger, Howard Sanborn, George Pullen,
Merton Grover, Merton Sears, with Edward Johnson as their coach.
     In 1932, Monson Academy was victorious over Washington Academy with the score 3726.
That year the team was made up of the following lineup: Oscar Suomi (captain), Oswald (Cookie)
Poole, Millard Emanuelson (Ollie), Stanford Stromback, Earl Brasier, Philip Soderquist, George
Carlson, Forrest Stevens (Mike), George (Savve) Larson was their coach. Harold E. Carson was
principal of Monson Academy at that time.
     In 1968, the Monson Academy Slaters once again took the title which was the last ever to
represent Monson Academy as an entity. The Varsity team won over the Casco "Loggers" at the
Exposition Building in Portland with a score of 6457.  Those responsible for the great showing
were Roy Taylor (Captain), Cyril (Bud) Leavitt, Richard (Dick) Woodard (CoCaptain), Gregory
Lander, Stuart Anderson, Jeffrey Greenleaf, Steven Bray, Edward Kronholm, with Gary Webb as
their coach.  Douglas Nelson and Ronald Harris were managers. Craig Anderson and James
Crockett were on the varsity squad the first half of the year.
     March 9, 1968 was the big day for the Slaters. That night the townspeople gave a victory
homecoming reception for the team. The bus was met at the AbbotMonson Town Line by a
Cavalcade of cars, sirens, police, and fire engines which escorted them to the gymnasium.  The
Main Street and school yard were both lined with lighted torches. A small program followed with
speeches by Principal Antonio Paradis, Coach Gary Webb, and Rev. Douglas Brayton.
Refreshments were served and a social time followed with a musical program by Bob and
Charles Denbow on the electric organ and the guitar.  Later dancing was enjoyed with the music
by the Vipers of Greenville.
     On April 11, 1968, the 1968 State Championship team was once again feted at the annual
Basketball Banquet sponsored by the Alumni Association.



  MONSON SLATER TOWN BASKETBALL TEAM

     In 1932, Monson also had a victorious professional Basketball Team. Those participating in
that were the following: Aubrey Kronholm, Mike Bennett, Wilbur Kronholm, Roland Johnson,
Charles Douglass and Edwin Holmbom. This Monson Slater Town Team won the Professional
County Basketball Championship and also won a championship for professionals in Bangor.


              MONSON ACADEMY TRACK TEAM

     The first County Track Meet was held at Dover-Foxcroft on May 19, 1934. Although it was
the first track meet in the history of the county it proved very successful. Monson Academy, led
by Captain Eino Suomi, won the County Championship with a total of 48.75 points while Milo
High School came through with 46.50 points to win second honors. The letter men were: Captain
Eino Suomi, Robert Zimmerman, Philip Soderquist, Clayton Jackson, Clifton Jackson, Galen
Wentworth, and George Carlson.


PERSONALITIES

1972  MONSON'S OLDEST SENIOR CITIZENS:

     MRS. MARGARET BROWN POOLE  was born November 25, 1877, on Prince Edward
Island. She came to Monson at the age of six and attended Monson's public schools. Mrs. Poole
married Carl Poole of Monson on June 8, 1895. She is the mother of five children: Margaret
Poole Bishop, Monson; Hazen, deceased; Thomas, Greenville; Sheldon, Miami, Florida; and
Oswald, Monson.  Mrs. Poole has 12 grandchildren. She is a former member of the North Star
Rebekah Lodge and is a member of the Church Circle. (She died at Brown's Nursing Home on
September 17, 1972.)

      MRS. MAUDE YOUNG BRAY  was born January 31, 1878 in Sherman Mills, Maine. She
came to Monson to attend Monson Academy. She later taught rural school  in Sherman Mills.
Mrs. Bray married Willie Alden Bray March 7, 1896. They owned and operated a grocery store
in Monson for many years. Mrs. Bray was active in all civic projects and President of the Baptist
Circle and a Past Noble Grand of North Star Rebekah Lodge. She was Librarian of Monson
Public Library for several years.  She did some practical nursing, but was especially interested in
maternity cases. In the beginning she went to the homes of her patients then later took maternity
cases in her home and helped deliver 100 babies. Mrs. Bray now lives in her own home and is a
semiinvalid.

      MRS. ADDIE H. WILLIAMS  born Addie Alice Hayden, May 7, 1879, in Brighton, Maine.
Until her marriage in 1902, to Richard Williams she had worked in the woolen mills in
Sangerville, and hotels in Monson and Kineo.  She  has two sons. Aubrey of Guilford, and Dana
of Monson. Mrs. Williams has two grandchildren  and two great grandchildren. Addie is a
member of the Monson Congregational Church, a former member of the United Circle, Mission
Circle, and the Stella Grace Philathea Class. She is also a former member of the North  Star
Rebekah Lodge, of which she is a Past Noble Grand, and of Euclid Chapter, Order of Eastern
Star. She also belonged to the Woman's Club for many years.  Mrs. Williams had spent most of
her life in Monson except for a few years in DoverFoxcroft, Clinton, and Bangor. (She died at
Brown's Nursing Home on Sept. 4, 1972.)
             


                                                      MEMORABLE CITIZENS:
     
     HARRY DAVIS  The memory of Harry Davis will not soon be forgotten to young and old
alike. The elderly will always remember him as the "Spruce Gum King", being the manager of the
Eastern Gum Co. of Monson, also as a frequent contributor to the Down East Magazine and the
Bangor Daily News "Maine Street" column.  Mr. Davis was active in the business life of Monson
and served in many town offices. He was an orchardist, lumberman, and saw mill operator.  The
young will always remember him delivering the Gettysburg Address each year at the Memorial
Day Exercises. He was born in Elliottsville, the son of Harrison and Voda (Corliss) Davis, came
to Monson after marrying Bessie Hebberd of Brooklyn, N. Y. in 1905 and  resided on Center St.
until his death at the age of 89 on April 29, 1969.

     SETH STEWARD Seth Wyman Steward, Jr., was born at Monson, Maine, May 4, 1844, the
son of Seth W. and Eliza (Baker) Steward. He married Mary Coan in 1875. They had five
children: Walter (married Margaret Bigger); Bertha; Maude (married Ernest Farrar); Barbara
(married Dr. Guy Dore); Raphall. Bertha and Raphall never married.  
     Mr. Steward served in the Union Army. He lived at Monson, Maine, Dorchester, Mass. and
Plainville, Conn., where he died July 10, 1934. He was buried in Monson,  Maine.
     He was in his own words, "a painter, decorator, and artist in oil". He also "hung paper and
painted carriages". Mr. Steward's only formal training was from a Mr. Cameron, a California artist
who spent his summers at Kineo.
       
      PROFESSOR WILLIAM SMITH KNOWLTON was born in East Sangerville, Maine, on
Oct. 21, 1839, the son of Isaiah and Lydia (Pollard) Knowlton.  Professor Knowlton received his
higher education at Foxcroft Academy and Waterville College. He lived some 25 years in Monson
(at different times) and married a Monson girl in 1867  Ellen Carr Flanders. They had two
daughters, Grace and Ethel. William and Ellen Knowlton were married about 40 years. Prof.
Knowlton taught at Monson Academy for the first time in 1862 and taught 17 years here in all,
the last time being from 18951905.  He taught in many different schools in Piscataquis County
and in other parts of the state. Dr. Knowlton also practiced for a short time as a lawyer and was a
pastor in Monson for four years. He represented Piscataquis County of Maine in both the House
and Senate. William S. Knowlton wrote the book "The Old School Master" which was printed in
1905. A book was also published about Monson people written in poetry form.
     Prof. Knowlton died in Newport, Maine, in May, 1926 at the home of his daughter Miss Ethel
Knowlton at age 86.
     An address which he gave on Aug. 19, 1922, at the Monson Centennial Program on the
educational and religious development, can be found in the Centennial Book.

     JOHN FRANCIS SPRAGUE  was born June 16,1848, in Sangerville, Maine, the son of
Elbridge Gerrish Sprague and Sarah Parsons Sprague. He was the editor of Sprague's Journal of
Maine History for fourteen years.  He also was a lawyer, legislator, and historian.  In 1874,  
Sprague was admitted to the Maine Bar Association. He moved to Monson in 1879 and lived here
until 1910, then moved to Dover.  In 192223, he served as Senator from Piscataquis County. John
Francis Sprague was crippled in the feet and was called Uncle John by many people. He published
the following books: "Sebastian Rale" a Maine tragedy of the 18th century; "Piscataquis
Biography and Fragments"; "The Northeastern Boundary Controversy and the Aroostook War";
"Three Men from Maine"  history of the Doric Lodge; "Backwoods Sketches"  articles published
in Maine Historical Society Journal of American History and the Lewiston Journal Magazine.
     Sprague was a selfeducated man. He attended common schools until he was 14 years old. He
adopted the vocation of peddling in the county until 22 years of age.  He read law in 18734 with
Alvah Black of Paris Hill.
     Sprague published his journal from March of 1913 until his death on May 7, 1926.



                                                                SCENIC POINTS

LAKE HEBRON:

     In 189091, the people of Monson first began to appreciate the beauties of the lake and its
value as a summer resort. The first cottage on Indian Point was owned by Mrs. P. W. Knight
(now owned by Charles Finch of N .J.)  Soon after more cottages were built namely: Bartlett's
(1892) which is now owned by Clair and Beatrix Bray of Sangerville and Mrs. Harriet Crafts
(1892) now owned by Millard and Billie Emanuelson.  The latter one was built by B. B. Steward.
In 1922, there were quite a number of summer cottages situated at Indian Point. This land was
given by Eben and Lucy Bray in 1890, when a corporation was formed and lots were laid out. An
Indian family whose name was "Rain-intheFace" were the last to live on Indian Point.
     Mrs. Mary F. Jones'  father, W. Farrar, built and owned the now Wilson Wilkins cottage at
Indian Point.  Judson Cushman owned a cottage on Indian Point that at one time was used as a
little store. He owned the cottage at the time he had his tailor shop. This cottage is now owned by
Millard and Billie Emanuelson.
     The "Loon Club" was organized around the 1890's and was situated where Francis Marshall's
camp now stands.
     Camp Comfort which was built before 1889, then owned by Estabrook, is one of the oldest
camps on the lake. The property is now owned by Mr. and Mrs. Leon Savage of Pennsylvania.
      Another unforgettable fixture on the lake was the old Molly Tomah which was built around
the 1900's and burned in 1911. It was said that she used to carry passengers to and from the Loon
Club and Indian Point.
      Today Lake Hebron is surrounded with new and modern camps, most of them with electricity.
The last few years have brought about the development of a bathing beach at Whiting's Cove with
supervised swimming during the summer months.


   MONSON POND:

      This pond is located on Elliottsville Road and is another vacation spot about two miles from
Monson Village. It is surrounded by several cottages and in 1971 a camping and tenting area was
built. Kelley's Orchards are located across the road from the pond which is still another scenic
spot when the apple trees are in a full bloom in the spring of the year.

HOMER HILL:

     William Hoar came to Monson in 1826 and located on the land and built a house where the
present house stands. The only other family living on the hill was a family by the name of Gates
which sold their land and house (building no longer standing) to W. Hoar giving him the title to
the whole hill. He sold two small parcels of land to the quarries to dump rubbish on. Homer Hill
has always been a farm.
     From that time on Homer Hill has remained in the family, generation after generation, as
follows:
     William Hoar married Betsy Goodell (daughter of Abel Goodell, surveyor). They had two sons 
-  James and Henry.  James went to Ohio where he changed his name to Homer.  Henry also
changed his name at the same time in 1874.
     Henry Homer married Sarah Mathews (sister to Robert Mathews' father). They had two sons 
Edward and Wallace and two daughters who died young. Wallace never married.
     Edward Homer married Eliza (Annie) Pennington.  They had one daughter  Dorothy. Eliza
Annie died and Edward remarried Myrtle Cook. They had one son - Henry.
     Dorothy Homer married Max Forbus.  They had two daughters, Lucinda and Candida. Max
Forbus died in Jan. 1970.  Dorothy Forbus is the present owner and  resides at the same location
on Homer Hill.
     Henry Homer moved the house where Goldsmith Harris now lives from below the Dore Farm
on Homer Hill. This house was where William and Betsy Hoar lived in their later years.

MOUNTAINS:

     The following mountains are seen from several points in and around Monson. The most
prominent and wellknown to the townspeople are:
      (Looking East from Monson)
              Squaw Mountain
              Burnt Jacket Mountain
              Barren Mountain
              Boarstone Mountain
              Mt. Rochelle
              Lilly Bay Mt.
              Mt. Baker
              Mt. Houston
       (Looking West)
              Mt. Russell
              Bald Mountain Range.


SEMICENTENNIAL COMMEMORATION

     The citizens of Monson, Maine met in Academy Hall on Monday, April 22, 1872.
     Selection by the Choir.
     Chairman A. Chapin, Esq. called the meeting to order and made a few remarks about the past
fifty years.
      Prayer offered by Rev. R. W. Emerson.
      Selection by the Choir.
      Historical address by Charles Davison, Esq.
      Appropriate remarks followed the address by Rev. A. H. Tyler and Hon. S. A. Patten.
     Poem delivered by W. S. Knowlton.
     Poem by Thomas N. Lord, Preceptor of the Academy.
     
     Anecdotes of the early settlers pioneer life and "ye olden tyme" were related by J. D. Jackson,
Dea. Cushman and Joseph Green.
     Selections by the choir of grand old times. The exercises were closed with the singing of
“America”.
      Audience invited to the room below and partook of an old fashioned supper, prepared by the
ladies. Toasts were drank and responses made.
     The attendance was very good in spite of the bad condition of the roads.


THE  MONSON CENTENNIAL
(Taken from Piscataquis Observer,  Thurs. Aug. 24, 1922)
(Written by  Earle H. Jackson)

        Monson very appropriately celebrated the 100th anniversary of the incorporation of the town
on Saturday, Aug. 19, 1922.  The weather man kept the people guessing in this town as well as
the surrounding towns during the early morning hours, but evidently had the affair at heart and
early in the forenoon brought forth the sun and a better day could not be asked for.
        The citizens of the town were awakened at 6 o'clock sharp by the peal of the church bells
and the boom of the cannon. At 8 o'clock the flag raising took place.  
      Soon after 9 o'clock Chairman A. L. Bray of the parade committee and marshal of the day got
the parade started which was at least as fine as any parade ever seen in this section of Maine.
Thirtyfive different floats, automobiles, and characters made up the parade as follows: Marshal of
the day,  L. Bray; Uncle Sam, represented by L. A. Stanchfield; Monson Band, C. L. Jackson,
director; Oral A. Towne Post, American Legion, August V. Peterson, commander; G.A.R.,
represented by I. P. Wing and Mrs. I. P. Wing represented the W.R.C.; Spanish War Veterans,
Chas. Johnson; American Flag, 20 x 10, carried by school girls; Almon Vinton, Monson's oldest
grand old man, aged 94 years, and Mrs. Amelia Knight, our dear old "Aunt Amelia", age 83, in an
old fashioned attire and wagon. The next in line were beautifully decorated cars with the "Over
Eighties", Baptist Church, H. L. Stanchfield represented “Uncle Ben" of the early days and
pioneer mail carrier of the early days of Monson. A float representing 1822 was followed by A.
Stromback's prettily decorated touringcar, a float by Onaway Lodge, I.O.O.F., North Star
Rebekah Lodge, Auxiliary to the American Legion. Special mention should be made of this float
for its beauty and touching effect upon all eyes that rested upon it. The driver of this float was C.
C. Towne whose eldest son was Monson's first contribution to "Flanders' Field" in France. Floats
representing the Boy Scouts and B.S.W. club were very handsome and attractive.
      Monson's old hand tub and new gasoline fire engine were followed by a fine float representing
the PortlandMonson Slate Co., G. P. Pullen's float, representing his sporting goods department of
his hardware store, brought forth many favorable comments. DoverFoxcroft Band, J. H. Taylor,
director, was followed by handsome floats representing Davison & Hammond's Grain and feed
mill, D. C. Weeks, wood working, A. L. Brown's general store, P. W. Knight & Sons, dry goods,
Tom Leeman's mule team, a float arranged by campers at Indian Point, Lake Hebron; a float
representing the Blaisdell Auto Co. of Dexter, E. H. Jackson, Local salesman and containing Miss
Beatrix Jackson as a Butterfly and the Jackson twins, Clifton and Clayton representing frogs, W.
A. Bray's beautifully decorated car, Harry Daw's grocery store, A. L. Bray's grocery store, The
Eastern Gum Co., Harry Davis, Manager, Chase & Kimball's Ford Station and the General Slate
Co.
      Both the slate companies represented had trimming machines and men actually splitting
roofing slate and were very interesting, especially to those from out of town. The parade lasted an
hour and covered the principal streets of the town.
      The winners of the floats were as follows: First prize, The Auxiliary to the Legion,
representing Flanders' Field; second prize, Indian Point; third prize, Mrs. W. A. Bray. The judges
were Dr. O. F. Larson of Machias, Dr. Simmonson of Connecticut and G. F. Barnard of
Worcester, Mass.  Special mention should be made of the B.S.W. Club's float which was very
dainty and handsome.
        After the parade the Monson band went to Emerson cove where the water sports were held.
Mrs. Josephine Sherburne of Brookline, Mass. was in charge and presented the following: 100 yd.
race, won by Milton Prentiss; 50 yd. race for girls, won by Vivian Wing; 50 yd. race for boys,
won by Roland Jacobson; floating contest, won by Vivian Bray, midget race, won by Miss Billie
Sherburne of Brookline, Mass.; fancy swimming, Vivian Wing; motor boat race, won by H. E.
Smith.
        During the water sports the DoverFoxcroft band furnished pleasing music in Sherman
Square and for the track events on Main Street opposite the Academy buildings. The track events
were in charge of Elmer Bigger, a Monson boy and athletic teacher.

THE PROGRAM:

        50 yd. dash for boys, won by James Wing; 100 yd. dash, won by Toiva Anderson; 220 yd.
dash, won by Toiva Anderson; 440 yd. dash, won by Aril Palmer; potato race, won by Lyle
Towne; standing broad jump, won by Laurence Inky; 12 lb. shot put, won by Laurence Inky.
        At noon excellent dinners were served by the Auxiliary in the Masonic banquet rooms, The
Monson Baptist Society, The Congregational Society and numerous individuals. Dinner was
served at 50 cents a plate.
        At one o'clock thousands of people gathered on the Academy school grounds to listen to the
centennial program for which Monson band furnished excellent music.  Dr. William Smith
Knowlton presided, dressed in the garb of his greatgrandfather. Dr. Knowlton always has
something of interest to say and his witty poems are always pleasing to listen to. Hon. Dudley P.
Bailey of Everett, Mass. and son of the first Baptist minister in Monson, was introduced and
spoke on "Reminiscences" which was very interesting. "A Toast" given by Arthur L. Brown,
Monson's gifted reader, brought forth a round of applause, John Francis Sprague, A. M., editor of
Sprague's Journal of Maine History, gave a fine address on "Our New Citizens". Dr. W. S.
Knowlton, Maine's Old Schoolmaster's Address on "Educational and Religious Development",
was extremely interesting. "A Look Backward after Fifty Years", given by Roland T. Pattern of
Skowhegan was very interesting and ably given. The speaker of the day was Dr. Shailer Mathews,
Dean of Chicago University. He took for his subject "Challenge of the Past" and those who did
not hear his address certainly missed one of the most interesting and able talks ever given before
an audience here.
      At 3 :30 the great ball game at Chapin Avenue ball grounds between Guilford A.A. and
Greenville A.A. was called and hundreds of baseball fans attended. Score: Greenville, 6, Guilford,
5.  
     At seven o'clock the DoverFoxcroft band rendered a very fine and pleasing concert in Sherman
Square. The grand ball in Spencer's hall at 8 :30 with music by Cobby O'Brien, seven piece
orchestra of Bangor, closed the great day, a day long to be remembered by all present.
     Chairman F. H. Crane of the Centennial Committee has worked unceasingly for weeks that this
event might be successful as have all the other committees. The town was very prettily decorated
with flags as were many private buildings. The stores made special decoration among which Harry
Daw's window representing 1822 and the other window 1922 was very attractive. The Eastern
Gum Co. had a beautiful display in one of the windows of Welch’s Restaurant.  An estimated
4,000 to 5,000 people were in town from far and near and we hope enjoyed themselves as much
as Monson people enjoyed having them come.
      During the day nearly 700 people visited the store of Edward Johnson where hundreds of
antiques were on display. Among some of the antiques were some of the furnishings of the
famous Blaine Mansion which have been handed down to the family of Mrs. Charles Smith, who
is a descendant of the original owners of the building. A brooch over 600 years old was also
loaned by Fred Larson. There was also a large collection of relics taken from the battlefields of
seven wars. The rooms were in charge of Mrs. John Rice Flint and Andria Towne Gerrish.
                         Floats: 1st prize  $15.00  Legion Auxiliary "Flanders Field".                                    
                                                                                                                                     2nd
prize  $10.00  Indian Point.
                 Prizes for the other events ranged from $1.00  $3.00.



REMEMBER THESE???

HARTLEY SMITH SHOE SHOP -This building was built before 1913 and was first used as a
photograph shop followed by a cobbler shop. It was formerly a one-story building, then later a
secondstory was added. H. Smith's daughter, L. Lambert, sold the building to Harold French in
1948, who used it as a shoe repair shop. It was torn down in 1963.  Located on Hebron Street.

LARS SELLBERG-This building owned by L. Sellberg was used as a candy, ice cream, etc.,
store located between the now Monson Light & Power Building and J. & J. General Store. This
store had a rent upstairs. The building burned in 1910.

HEBRON OR WILLER HOUSE-In 1888, H. T. Boynton had a store and sold stoves and
tinware. His store was originally situated nearer to the old town hall (G.A.R., now Historical
Museum).  It burned on Dec. 28, 1888. It was then rebuilt as a one story building on the same
location. Elise Jones then bought it and moved it to the location on which the New Municipal
Building now stands, where it was put on a basement and a second story was added. In the
basement a store was opened that sold hot dogs, etc. A Millinery Shop operated by Etta Williams
was on the first floor and a rent was in the back. Second floor  a rent. In the 1940's it was owned
by the Willer's and known as the Hebron House.  The building was torn down around 196566,
and the land was bought by the Town of Monson. The New Municipal Building now stands in this
location and houses the Town Office, Public Library, Fire Department, Highway Garage, and a
Kitchen with a large room for social acitivites.

SHERBURNE PHOTO SHOP-This building was once located across from the Congregational
Church and was later moved to Hebron Street and placed where the old garages are now located
by the little pond. It was torn down to make way for the garages.

ARVID ANDERSON BLOCK-- Once owned by Fred Spencer who ran a sporting goods store.
Rents on the first and second floors. Then the following owned it: Luther Colbath  meat store;
Bob  McIver  meat store; Carroll Jackson  meat store; Clarence Sargent  general store with gas
pumps; then Arvid Anderson who had a meat and grocery store for 17 years; closed the store in
1965.   It was then torn down about a year later. (Note:  the building burned in the 1897 fire and
later rebuilt.)

BLACKSMITH SHOPS--A. Walter Farrar worked in the shop of James Tarr located on the
premises of  the now L. Simpson home on Main St. Then A. W. Farrar built his own shop in back
of his home, now owned by A. Lindie Beckwith on Water St. Later moved to a shop on S. Main
St. located between J. Hennigan and E. Copeland homes. Building torn down about three years
ago.

BLACKSMITH SHOP--Located between B. Doble, and the Open Door Church, on Water
Street, which was formerly owned by William Sentner; then sold to Ernest Farrar; then sold to
Charles Bradford. Sentner lived in and owned what is now B. Doble's home. Building torn down
in the 1940's.

KICKSLED-In 1914, Mr. Gustaf Johnson introduced Monson to the favorite sport of 
“kicksledding".   Having learned the blacksmith trade from his father, Mr. Johnson came to
America from Sweden when he was about 19 years old and was employed by the Monson Slate
Co. for 34 years. He made kick sleds in his spare time in the rear of his home (now the home of
Merle and Viola Woodard on Chapin Ave). Since Monson's climate was identical to Sweden's the
kicksled's popularity grew and became an immediate success. It was a great thrill to fly downhill
and over icy lakes. Unfortunately, plowed and sanded roads retired this delightful pastime.

 TARR'S HALL (SPENCER'S HALL)--This was first built for a woodshed for Mr. Chapin
around 1872.  In 1877, it was remodeled into a hall by James and Will Tarr  then sold to Fred
Spencer. Spencer owned it about 1900.  Then Perro Morris owned it around 1914 and held
moving pictures there. In 1924 movie prices were 15 cents and 25 cents. It was called Spencer's
Hall at the time of the Town's 100th birthday. Oscar Carlson bought it in 193031; remodeled in
1940 and used as a personal garage. Used as the Town Hall in the 1889 era.  School functions
such as graduations, plays, and basketball games were held in the hall, also roller skating, movies,
and town meetings until 1940.

LAKE HEBRON HOTEL--The former M. Pearl house on Route 15 (now D. Burns) was moved
to make way for the hotel in 1882 which was built by Hildreth. It contained twenty rooms with an
annex which was added later on. It overlooked the lake and was always overflowing with summer
guests. Monson Maine Slate Co. were proprietors in 1889 with Fred Crane as operator. It burned
January 6, 1910 and it was located on Rt.15 between James and John Durham's present homes.

GRIST MILL--Located below the present Storer's Home Care Center on upper Water Street.
Built by T. Davee in 1841. Many different people operated and owned it. Alvin Gray was owner
in 1873. Later sold to the Monson Maine Slate Co.  they rented to Joseph Davison and Guy
Hammond as a grain and feed store-  then G. Hammond and his son Lawrence Hammond. Closed
in the 1940's. Fell down and remains cleared away. The land is now owned by the Town of
Monson. (Note: Upstairs in the Grist Mill, slatelined butter boxes were manufactured at one
time.)

SAW MILL--This was located below the old Grist Mill on upper Water Street. In 1858 owned or
operated by J. P. Haynes. Owned by Alvin Gray in 1873. Later the Monson Maine Slate Co.
acquired the property and years later they sold to Harry Davis. No buildings standing and the land
is now owned by the Town of Monson. Below these two mills (Grist and Saw Mills) there once
was a shingle mill plus a cider mill.

PHILLIPS SAW MILL--This was located below the present residence of Adolph Burke on lower
Water Street. Owned by T. Phillips before and in 1858, afterwards his son Nelson Phillips owned
it. The water rights were controlled by the mills up in the village. Phillips Mill and stable were
destroyed by fire May 26, 1891. (Note: Every winter different men hauled logs in with teams and
sleds  later by trucks  and piled them on the little pond behind the stores on Main Street. In the
spring when the ice went out, the saw mill commenced sawing, sluicing the logs through the canal
under Main Street.

FLINT'S LIVERY STABLE--Located behind Knight's Store by the little pond. Built around 1900
by Henry Grover for J. Lord and operated by him and then by Merton Grover. In 1917 it was
owned b