Our Colonial Past

   If you have an interest in history (or are just looking for an excuse to visit the prettiest part of the world) you may wish to visit the Colonial Pemaquid State Historic site this Saturday and Sunday.  A large group of military re-enactors or "living historians" will re create some aspects of a military installation in coastal Maine to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the start of the French and Indian War.

   Warfare between the French and British and their Native American allies actually lasted from 1756 to 1762 in North America but was part of a larger conflict that played out in Europe, India and the Caribbean.  1759 is now considered by historians to be the pivotal year in this conflict and the year where the advantage swung to the British.  Without a British victory at that time the history of our own country would have been very different.

   Presently know as Fort William Henry, the fort and the historic site will feature a period encampment and visitors will have a chance to see portrayals of Native American, English and French life at Pemaquid in the 18th century. There will be demonstrations by colonial crafts persons and militia re-enactors.  I'm told that most of the action will take place on Saturday with some events on Sunday morning. For more information and better directions than I can give visit the website of the Friends of Colonial Pemaquid .

   Our area is rich in colonial era history and architecture and Newcastle Square Realty has been fortunate to broker the sales of many important properties from that era.  I am constantly amazed at the level of workmanship and quality that was practiced at that time and can't help but wonder at how some of todays homes will look in 250 years!

Jim Cosgrove