1956 Map of Bangor

About this map

The Penobscot River and Kennebec River define the industrial and maritime character of this mid-century Maine landscape, anchoring a network of historic mill towns and coastal ports. From the state capital at Augusta to the inland hub of Bangor, the map illustrates a region transitioning into the Cold War era, notably marked by the expansion of Dow Air Force Base. Along the complex coastline of Penobscot Bay and Frenchman Bay, established maritime communities like Rockland and Belfast sit adjacent to the granite peaks of Mount Desert Island, where Acadia National Park remains a prominent fixture. The vital transport role of the Maine Central RR is evident as it links the timber-rich interiors near Old Town and Skowhegan to the Atlantic coast, providing a clear view of the mid-1950s infrastructure before the major shifts of the late 20th century.