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Go back to the home page Read a synopsis of each program

Explore key events in Maine history.

Explore Maine cultural history.

Explore Maine's Native American heritage.

Lesson plans and ideas for classroom teachers.

Check out other interesting history sites

The Golden Age of Shipbuilding.

Excerpts from Maria Higgins Murphy's diary letters.

Coastal Tourism

Read about our featured interviews for this program.

Read a printable transcript of this program.

Site index


They Came by Sea

Europeans arrived here by sea, attracted by the region's phenomenal fisheries and the natural resources visible on the coast.


At first, they weren't interested in establishing permanent settlements but, as an appreciation for the economic value of Maine's natural resources grew, colonial settlement began.


The coastal and inland river communities that developed were a result of the State's unique geography and environment.

Today, Maine continues to rely on the economic advantages available through the natural resources of the coast.

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THE GOLDEN AGE | DIARIES | COASTAL TOURISM | FEATURED INTERVIEWS | TRANSCRIPT

HISTORY TIMELINE | ARTS & CULTURE TIMELINE | NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE | CLASSROOM | HISTORY LINKS | SITE INDEX

HOME: The Story of Maine on the Maine Public Broadcasting Network was made in partnership with the Maine State Museum. Major funding was provided by the  Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency committed to fostering innovation, leadership and a lifetime of learning. Additional funding provided by Elsie Viles.
Major funding for previous seasons of  HOME: The Story of Maine was made possible by a grant from Rural Development, a part of the USDA. Special support is provided by The Maine State Museum and Northeast Historic Films.