Town of Fairfield, Maine
Source: Town of Fairfield, Maine Facebook
Fairfield, Maine
Mills along the Kennebec were an important part of Fairfield’s history. At one point, the town had eight sawmills and other industries, ranging from a sled factory to carriage factories. Kendall’s Mills and Somerset Mills were textile plants and the largest in the area. Today, Fairfield makes wood and paper products and is a residential community for the neighboring town of Waterville.
Let’s explore Fairfield and get a good lay of the land and the community!
Exploring Fairfield Maine
A fun and educational activity to do in Fairfield is a visit to the L. C. Bates Museum. The National Endowment for the Humanities recently featured the museum in its 50 States of Preservation project. The project showcases small to mid-sized museums and their role in helping preserve cultural heritage across America. The museum has a vast collection of Maine wildlife dioramas and many cabinets displaying minerals, Maine Native American crafts, and many other items that relate to the archaeology and history of Maine. On the grounds, there are nature trails and a fern and butterfly garden for the entire family to enjoy.
Get outside and visit a park on an island in the river. Mill Island is on the Kennebec right in Fairfield, and on the island is a park called Mill Island Park. The park is owned and managed by the town for day use. It has a trail system with beautiful views of the Kennebec, a playground, and a picnic area. You can make arrangements to use the park for events such as weddings or school activities with permission. There are also placards along the trails and walkways that explain the history of Mill Island Park.
Tour the historical Cotton-Smith house, a beautifully preserved example of a Queen Anne Victorian house built in 1894 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Also known as the Fairfield History House, the Fairfield Historical Society uses the home as its headquarters. You are welcome to tour the house; the hours are on the society’s homepage, or you can call and make an appointment for a tour.
The Kennebec River has long served as a water route into Maine’s interior from the Atlantic, and the river was used as a major landmark in uncharted territory. The Kennebec and towns that flourished along its banks have seen so much history. One such event was Benedict Arnold’s ill-fated attempt to invade Quebec in 1775. Benedict and 1100 Continental Army Troops left Cambridge, sailed to the river’s mouth, and then portaged through the wilderness to Quebec. The journey was grueling, and in the end, the attempt to capture Quebec failed. Fairfield has a marker signifying a stop Benedict and his troops made on the Kennebec.
Source: Apple Farm Website
Apple Farm in Fairfield, Maine
Fairfield Fare and Fun
Fairfield has its fair share of long-standing and outstanding culinary establishments. Hillman’s Bakery has been in business since 1960, baking pies, pastries, doughnuts, and bread all made from scratch six days a week. Wedding and customized cakes are their specialties. Locals rave about the service and the tasty treats.
Belanger’s Drive-In and Dairy Bar got its start in 1974, has a motto “With more than 85 items on our menu prepared daily with the freshest ingredients, it might be hard to choose, but it’s impossible to end up hungry!” Not only do they serve well-proportioned entrees, but the variety is astounding: from 18 different milkshake flavors to their famous meat pies, there is something for everyone here.
A newcomer to the Fairfield restaurant scene, The Purple Cow House of Pancakes has served breakfast and lunch since 1989. They are famous for their Old Fashioned Homemade Hash, and besides a delicious assortment of pancakes and breakfast options, the Purple Cow has burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and seafood. Did we mention the quirky and fun decor?
There is a lot to see and do when you visit The Apple Farm in Fairfield. From picking apples to watching how apple cider gets made, there are plenty of opportunities for a fun and educational time at the Apple Farm. The farm is open from August to November and not only can you pick apples, a pumpkin patch, and wagon rides with or without the hay! There’s a gift shop that features other farm-grown fruits, maple syrup, honey, jellies, and jams. Fresh pressed apple cider, anyone?
Activities Close By Fairfield
Just down the road from Fairfield is Quarry Road Trails, maintained by the sister city of Waterville. A four-season outdoor recreational space with activities from disc golf to snow tubing, and everything in between, the Quarry is a well-maintained and growing community center. The next big project for the Quarry is lift-served skiing. Check-in with them to volunteer or see how things are progressing. Also, the Head of the Falls and River Walk are nearby. This newly renovated waterfront park is not only a beautiful place to visit but many community events take place here, from farmer’s markets to live outdoor concerts.
