WESTBROOK MAINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Main Street Westbrook, Maine
Colorized Pictures
Looking West circa 1888
circa 1920
Beginnings
Westbrook was originally known as Saccarappa after Saccarappa Falls on the Presumpscot River. It was a part of Falmouth until February 14, 1814, when it was set off and incorporated as Stroudwater. It soon changed its name to Westbrook after Colonel Thomas Westbrook, a King’s mast agent who was an early settler and mill operator. In 1891, Westbrook was incorporated as a city.
Saccarappa Falls and Congin Falls provided essential water power for Westbrook’s early mills. In the 1800s, the establishment of textile and paper mills attracted a growing workforce, transforming the local economy. Notably, the S.D. Warren Paper Mill, founded in 1854 at Cumberland Mills became one of the nation’s largest paper producers. Its success spurred economic growth, leading to the construction of worker housing, schools, and churches, shaping the community’s development throughout the century. The city seal, adopted on June 4, 1891, features a depiction of the vessel that Colonel Thomas Westbrook sailed to Falmouth, along with the Westbrook family crest, which includes an armored boot. While the designer’s identity remains unknown, the seal was donated by Benjamin Harris of Portland, who received official thanks from the city government for his contribution.
ARE YOU A MEMEMBER OF THE WESTBROOK MAINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY?
Your membership and support helps preserve Westbrook’s rich history and allows us to maintain archives, host exhibits, and continue local research. It connects you with others who care about our shared heritage. It’s a simple but meaningful way to ensure Westbrook’s past is never forgotten.
Membership dues are $15.00 per year and payable by July 1. We will soon be accepting Venmo for online transactions. Until then, if you prefer paying by check please make it payable to:
Westbrook Maine Historical Society
426 Bridge Street
Westbrook, Maine 04092
207-464-1119