The Story Of Maine's Casco Castle Is Eerie But Fascinating And You Can Still View It
By Michelle|Published May 05, 2021
×
Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Take a trip through the state of Maine and you’ll find tons of historical spots. From the ones that still stand, offering formal information about the past to the remnants of everyday life such as dilapidated barns and homes, there’s a lot to be learned just from exploring. One of the most surprising pieces of history we’ve come across is the remnants of this castle located in Freeport.
If you've ever been in the South Freeport area, either on a boat in the bay or on land, you may have noticed an unexpected structure beyond the trees. This is the only remaining piece of an early 1900s hotel and amusement park that has a history that many are not aware of.
Let's jump back to 1903! An electric trolley system linking Boston and Bangor has recently been built and the Brunswick-Yarmouth Street Railway is an exciting addition to the Freeport area.
In order to increase awareness and ridership which would result in more money for those involved in the project, local Amos Gerald created Casco Castle. The idea was to create an attraction that would require the use of the electric trolley to visit.
The real attraction here was the amusement park on the grounds, which was open to the public. The zoo here had a changing cast of characters including a brightly colored peacock, monkeys, and bison to name just a few.
As cars became the more popular means of transportation in America, the electric trolley saw less action. Over time Casco Castle faced financial trouble and despite attempts to save it things never truly improved. It met its end in 1914 when a fire ripped through the wooden building as guests were packing to leave.
To see more of the history behind Casco Castle check out this video created by Katie Bavoso!
The Casco Castle tower is best seen from the water, but it can also be spotted from Winslow Park and the and of Wolfe’s Neck Road. Know of any other cool historical spots that might be lesser-known? Let us know in the comments!
