History & Walking Tours

Waterville takes great pride in its history. Our downtown is even home to seven structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. We encourage residents and visitors alike to use the following links to learn more about our City’s fascinating heritage.

Self-Guided Walking Tours

• Museum in the Streets (PDF)
  • A printable brochure of the self-guided heritage tour of the Franco-American community in the City’s South End beginning in Castonguay Square (next to City Hall) and ending at the second Baptist Church. The brochure walks you through the detailed information panels located throughout the South End about its cultural history.

History of Waterville

• A Short History of Waterville (PDF) by Stephen Plocher, Colby College Class of 2007.
  • Stephen's work explores the evolving identity of Waterville through its historical name changes, revealing a narrative of transformation and resilience. Originally known as Teconnet by the Canibas people, the city has transitioned from plantations to towns, ultimately becoming Waterville and then a bustling urban center. The history also highlights the influence of English-speaking colonists and French-Canadian immigrants, whose name changes reflect broader social dynamics. Overall, Waterville's name changes symbolize its dynamic past and the enduring spirit of its community. Learn more about the history of our great city by clicking on the link above!

History of…

• Charles Horace Nelson, the owner of Nelson 4209, Maine’s champion trotting stallion 
  • Charles Horace Nelson was a prominent figure in Maine's equestrian history, best known as the owner of Nelson 4209, the state's champion trotting stallion. Under his care, Nelson 4209 achieved remarkable fame, earning the title of "King of the Stallion" in 1891. Nelson's dedication to horse racing and breeding not only elevated his own status but also contributed to the legacy of the sport in Maine. His story intertwines themes of ambition, glory, and redemption, reflecting the vibrant culture of equine excellence in the Waterville area.
• Head of Falls
  • This property is not only one of Waterville’s most historic locations, but also one of the most important early settlement locations on the Kennebec River – both for the Native Americans and the European settlers.
• Waterville’s Cannon
  • Just how did a German cannon come to a final resting place at Veterans Memorial Park in Waterville, Maine?
• Waterville in Pictures
  • Seven historic albums with a variety of photos from all eras representing Waterville’s history in photographs. From historic homes of Waterville to Fire and Aviation, and so much more, these photo albums won’t disappoint.
• “Waterville - Postcard History Series (PDF)” by Earle G. Shettleworth 
  • Serving as a primary method of communication in the early 1900’s, postcards captured moments in time and, many years later, have often been found to be the only images of buildings, monuments, and places left in existence. Revealing the way of life of the average American, vintage postcards reveal authentic views of the time and place in which they were produced, and expose important insight into the society, cultural attitudes, and traditions of the past.