In the 18th and 19th centuries, Freedom, Maine, located in Waldo County, was a bustling and prosperous town. It thrived with a variety of mills—grist, corn, lumber, dowel, and shingle—supporting a strong agricultural community. The town’s productivity fueled a large canning factory, a woolen mill, and a tannery.

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Freedom Village, a hub of activity for its time, was home to numerous businesses, including a dry goods and general store, a barber shop, two blacksmith shops, a shoe shop, and the Congregational Church. Three hotels—Freedom Lakewood, Hotel Maine, and the Bellows House—once welcomed visitors, while Freedom Academy, founded in 1836, served as the region’s only secondary school. The town also boasted a Grand Army of the Republic Hall, reflecting its rich historical legacy.

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Over time, however, Freedom’s prosperity waned. As mills and businesses closed, the town’s vibrancy faded. By the mid-20th century, only one mill remained, abandoned and slowly collapsing. The hotels and small shops had disappeared, the Academy had burned, and the canning factory had fallen into disrepair. Many of Freedom’s historic buildings succumbed to neglect, lost to time.

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Yet, in recent decades, Freedom has experienced a remarkable revival. A new generation of residents—both longtime locals and newcomers—has embraced the town’s heritage with fresh energy and dedication. Historic homes have been restored, agriculture has flourished once again, and community pride has been rekindled.

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The Freedom Community Historical Society has played a key role in preserving this history. The old Meeting House has been renewed, and the last remaining mill has been meticulously restored with historical accuracy. Now, the Society is undertaking the restoration of Keen Hall, built around 1850 in the heart of Freedom Village. Once completed, this historic space will serve as a vibrant community center and a testament to Freedom’s enduring spirit.

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Please visit the DigitalCommons@UMaine to view a history of Freedom, Maine, submitted in 2019 by Florence Overlock, Viola Greeley, and Lorraine Overlock.