History of Upton, Maine
Upton is a small, quiet town in Oxford County, distinguished by its unique geography on the Maine-New Hampshire border and its connection to the scenic Umbagog Lake. Its history tells a story of a community that has always been defined by its natural surroundings.
From Letter B Plantation to an Incorporated Town 🌳
The area that would become Upton was originally known as Letter B Plantation. The land was part of a larger tract that was first settled in the early 19th century. In 1840, the area was officially organized as Plantation Letter B.
As the population grew, the community decided to form a more formal government. On February 9, 1860, Plantation Letter B was incorporated as the town of Upton. The town's location on the Umbagog Lake and the Rapid River made it a hub for early industry and commerce. At its peak, the town had a saw-mill, a grist-mill, a starch factory, and several other small shops. The town also had two hotels, serving travelers and sportsmen who were drawn to the area's pristine lakes and rivers.
A significant part of Upton's history is tied to the spruce gum industry. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a former refinery in Upton was used to process spruce gum, a precursor to modern chewing gum. This industry, along with other small local businesses, helped sustain the community.
A Modern Community Rooted in Nature 🎣
By the mid-20th century, many of Upton's early industries faded away. The spruce gum business declined with the rise of new chewing gum products, and the small mills eventually closed. However, Upton's identity shifted from an industrial town to a recreational one.
Today, Upton is a small, close-knit community with a population of fewer than 100 people. Its economy and culture are built around its natural assets. It serves as a gateway to the Umbagog Lake region and the White Mountain National Forest. A notable historical landmark is the Historic Forest Lodge, a sporting camp that was once the home of author Louise Dickinson Rich, who wrote about her life in the remote Maine woods. This lodge, located deep in the township, symbolizes Upton's enduring connection to the wilderness.
Upton remains a destination for those seeking a tranquil, rural lifestyle and for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, hunting, boating, and hiking in the untouched beauty of western Maine.