10 Historic Firsts You Probably Didn’t Know Started in Maine

Every day, I remind you that Maine is pretty much the best state in the USA. Are you getting tired of it yet? I hope not, because I'm certainly not tired of reminding you! We know that there were many awesome things invented in Maine, that Maine is beautiful, that marrying a Mainer is a good decision, and that we have the best hikes, sunsets, and waterfalls in the world. But, did you know that Maine was the first to do quite a few things in the country? As a small departure from our opinion lists, here are some straight-up facts to share with your friends from away all about a couple of Maine firsts. These are some of the best Maine firsts in our state.

1. The First English-Built Ship in America Set Sail from Maine

The Pinnace Virginia was built along the Kennebec River in what is now Phippsburg. It was used to return 46 of the last colonists to England in 1608. Today, the legacy of Maine’s shipbuilding roots still defines its coastal towns.

2. The Birth of America’s Lumber Industry Began in Maine, 1623

The mill was located on the Piscataqua River near York, Maine, and actually existed before the town did. The purpose of the mill was to export lumber to England to be turned into warship masts. England's trees were not suitable for this purpose, but the colonists in New England had more than enough to share! In 1634, the first shipment of masts, from white pines, was sent to England.

3. The Original Patent for the Sealed Dive Suit Came from Maine

Maine inventor Leonard Norcross patented what is widely accepted as the first practical, sealed dive suit in 1834. The suit had weighted feet and a hard, water-tight helmet. Exhaust air was pushed out the top of the helmet, which allowed divers a full range of motion underwater for the first time. Norcross’s innovation laid the foundation for modern diving – another example of Maine ingenuity.

4. Maine Led the Way in 2013 by Legalizing Overseas Prescription Purchases

In 2013, Maine was the first state to legalize the purchase of prescription drugs from overseas. But a few years later, the law was deemed unconstitutional as it was preempted by an act from the FDA designed to prevent such purchases. Even though the law didn’t last, it highlighted Maine’s focus on healthcare affordability.

5. The First Zigzag Sewing Machine Was Born in Maine

Helen Augusta Blanchard, who patented several inventions relating to sewing machines in 1873 and 1875, was born in Portland. Her creations included the method allowing for the zig-zag stitch, along with patents for the invention of the pencil sharpener and hat sewing machine. While most of her inventing happened outside of Maine, she did return to the state later in life. Her creativity helped shape the world of sewing and continues to inspire inventors today.

6. Maine Is Home to Togus, America’s First Veterans Hospital

Togus was founded in 1866, and the first veteran was admitted on November 10 of the same year. The veteran population of the home was under 400 until a building program began in 1868, which created housing for 3,000 veterans. Today, Togus remains a cornerstone of care for veterans throughout New England.

7. The First Snowmobile Concept Was Born in Maine

While over-snow travel was something that many people tried to perfect, one of the first versions was created by OC Johnson, who came out of Waterville. A few years after his creation, someone else actually gave it the "snowmobile" name. Maine's snowmobile history goes further, with Polaris using many areas in the hilly areas of Northern Maine as testing grounds. So, we can proudly say that many of the advancements in snow travel happened FIRST in Maine. Looking to take your sled out this winter? Check out this massive snowmobile trail in Maine.

8. York, Maine, Was the First Chartered City in the United States

The charter took place in 1641. In 1642, it became the country’s first incorporated city. York is also home to the best zoo in the state. Make sure you check out York's Wild Animal Kingdom. Today, York’s coastal charm and historic streets reflect centuries of Maine heritage.

9. Maine Was Home to the Inventor of the Maxim Gun

The world's first portable, fully automatic machine gun was invented by Sir Hiram Stevens Maxim in 1884. Though he filed the actual patent in England, Stevens was a Maine native who lived in the state until his 40s. He also held patents on devices such as the mousetrap, hair-curling irons, and steam pumps. His inventive streak proves that Maine has always been a place where innovation thrives.

10. Maine Is the First State to See the Sunrise in America

But, just where that happens in a hotly contested debate in Maine. There are three places that claim to have the first view – Lubec, Mars Hill, and Cadillac Mountain in Acadia. It seems that just where you see the sunrise first depends on the time of year. From late March to mid-September, you'll want to head to Mars Hill for first light. But, from mid-September through the first week of October, you should head to Quoddy Head. If you want to work for your view and see it from Cadillac Mountain, you have some more time. Be there between mid-October and early March, and America's first light'll greet you. No matter where you stand, watching the nation’s first sunrise is a quintessential Maine experience.

There you have it –10 things that are Maine firsts. Did we leave any other Maine firsts or Maine inventions off the list? Let us know by completing this nomination form. Want to explore the sites where these Maine firsts took place? Plan your own Maine adventure with the Only In Your State itinerary planner.