Tour the Past in York, Maine

York, Maine is a perfect destination for any one with a keen interest in New England's history. Within the older section of York lies a number of historic buildings. These buildings are open to visitors and offer a glimpse into eras that have long been forgotten by most.

When traveling to York, Maine, it is important to remember that the streets can be somewhat narrow and parking can be limited in many areas. Expect to do a lot of walking. Streets are generally flat and sidewalks are well groomed so walking is generally not an issue for those.

The Old Gaol:

The Old Gaol (Jail) was originally built in the 1600s, but it was rebuilt in 1719 to provide enough room for prisoners and the gaoler (jailer) and his family. In the latter part of the 1700s, another wing was erected to create better prison accommodations for those who were going to jail due to their debts (debtors prison). A tour through this antique prison shows that cells were very sparse. There were two dungeon cells that the prisoners all shared. At the time the main crimes were public intoxication, debt, and theft. Serious crimes such as arson and murder led to the execution of the criminals by hanging. Other smaller crimes (fighting, lewd behavior) would led to the criminal being placed in the stocks outdoors and then being whipped or caned in public. Today the jail is one of York's main attractions. The cells and the jailer's quarters are on display. In one wing of the building, the history of Maine's prison system is displayed through pictures and documents.

Emerson-Wilson House:

At Emerson-Wilson House, visitors will learn about the homes use as a tavern, store, post office, tailor, and private residence. Today, it is a large museum filled with period furnishings, impressive artwork, and antique bed hangings. Emerson-Wilson house was built in 1742 by a man named George Ingraham. The fifteen-room house is of the Georgian style and features a parlor, hall, huge chimney, and bedrooms. A tour through the home offers the tourist a chance to see the structures of homes centuries ago. They will quickly discover that many floor plans revolved around the public rooms and that floor plans centered around the kitchen, dining room, and living areas where families would cluster and spend hours together.

Jefferds' Tavern:

Jefferds' Tavern is actually a building taken from Wells, Maine and restored in York in the 1940s. Originally, Jefferds' Tavern was built in 1750 on the main mail route between Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Portland, Maine. The tavern offered travelers a place to rest and dine. During the early 1900s, historian William Barry purchased the property and had it restored to resemble Massachusetts's Wayside Inn, made famous thanks to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poetry. When Barry died in the 1930s, York resident Elizabeth Perkins decided to purchase the tavern and have it moved to her hometown. The building was carefully taken apart and moved to York where it was rebuilt. Inside the building tourists can view cooking demonstrations on the huge brick fireplace and its hearth. The taproom with its bar cage is also worth viewing. There are many elaborate murals and period furnishings that are well worth a visitor's time.

Ramdell's House:

Ramdell's House is a newer building, yet it is still antique by today's standards. Built in the mid-1800s, Ramdell's house is a typical two-room home that farm workers would have resided in. Financial constraints kept this farmhouse from being expanded. The original owner, Theodore Ramsdell was able to provide a meager living for his wife, mother-in-law, and three children all within this small home. Inside is the chimney that is centrally located with sleeping quarters and a small kitchen/dining area. After touring this home, many tourists realize just how well off they really are.

John Hancock Warf:

York River plays an important part in York's history. The river served as a main route from city to city where boats could come in brining necessary supplies. The John Hancock Warf is one of the commercial areas housing both a large warehouse and later the general store. Ships and boats would bring the merchandise to York via the river. The warehouse workers would charge taxes/duty on the merchandise brought into York from Boston or as far away as London. From the warehouse, goods were shipped to the area general stores. The George Marshall store opened in the mid-1800s and provided the store owner, George Marshall, with an incredible location because the merchandise warehouse was located right next door. Instead of paying shipping charges, he could simply walk next door and boost his inventory as needed. Today, visitors will find a well documented history of York's maritime history within the old warehouse. The George Marshall Store is used for lectures and frequently changing exhibits.

Elizabeth Perkins House:

One of York's most prominent residents, Elizabeth Perkins spent much of her time trying to preserve York's history by establishing a historical society. The Elizabeth Perkins House was built in 1686. At the time, it was simply a one-room house known as the Piggin House. Over time, rooms were added turning the once tiny home into a grand Colonial home. Elizabeth Perkins and her mother purchased the home in 1898 for the sum of $1,300. The rather run-down house received much needed improvements and additions. Furnished with many antiques, many locals and visitors feel that the Elizabeth Perkins House is the most attractive home in all of Old York. It is definitely a main attraction in the town and worth viewing.

To visit these historic homes, visitors can pay either $5 for one building or the better deal of $10 for all buildings. Senior citizens and children receive a discount. Seniors pay $4 for one building or $8 for all buildings. Children pay $3 for one building and $6 for all buildings. Children under the age of four are admitted for free. Buildings are generally open from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday during the summer season (June to October).