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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 power industry expands

Farms get wired

Electricity Today

Read about the people on this program.

Read a printable transcript of this program.

Site index
Power Lines  

Maine switched on its first electric light in 1880 and, within a decade, the state's urban areas were benefiting from the advantages of electricity. However, electrification was slow to reach outlying rural areas, and over one-quarter of the state didn't receive electricity until the 1940s. At the turn of the century, farmers as well as business investors were enthusiastic about the possibilities of hydroelectric power, and electricity was at the heart of Maine politics.




THE POWER INDUSTRY EXPANDS | FARMS GET WIRED | ELECTRICITY TODAY | FEATURED INTERVIEWS | TRANSCRIPT

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


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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.