Summer Information For Sommerset County In Maine






Oct 12, 08

Sommerset County
Maine

On the Kennebec River

Skowhegan, the largest town in Sommerset County, is located on the Kennebec River. This island was originally called Skowhegan,"a place to watch," by the Abenaki. The Abenaki used this spot while looking for salmon in the depths below the falls. Sculptor Bernard Langlais carved a 62-foot American Indian in wood to honor the Abenaki tribe.

In 1771, new settlers were attracted to the area because of its timber and the great Kennebec River. Lumbering became a prime activity of the region for well over 100 years and it is still part of the economy. Just seven miles away is a paper pulp mill with a daily capacity of 800 tons.

The region is known to encompass prime hunting and fishing terrain. Numerous lakes, streams and rivers wind their way through the county. Catches include salmon, small and large mouth bass, trout and perch. Rafting also is popular here on the Kennebec, Dead and Penobscot rivers.

One of the town's claims to fame is the Skowhegan State Fair,said to be the oldest fair in the country. It has been put one every year since 1818 and is held in August.

A tour of the homes in the town includes that of Margaret Chase Smith, who completed 36 years in the U.S. House and Senate. The Margaret Chase Smith library has displays about her life and career.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area