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Much credit must be given to Robert Hallowell Gardiner, my grandson, who pioneered, built, and developed many of the land grants and business institutions that still stand today including the City of Hallowell, our neighbors up river.
By all measures, shipbuilding, from the early part of the 19th century up until the Civil War, was the foremost industry here along the Kennebec River. The grand riverboats, shipyards, and railways, pictured above, dominated industrial activity, provided jobs, moved goods -- and built fortunes.
In 1849, Gardiner obtained a charter from the Maine State Legislature to officially become a City. In addition to shipping -- papermills, commercial ice, and shoe manufacturing enabled the new entity to grow, flourish, and prosper!
The family of Henry and author Laura E. Richards (shown here with me along with a crusty old salt from the neighboring shipyard) were key contributers to Gardiner's historical landscape, helping to build the first hospital, water district, our wonderful library and the grammar school that bears the Laura E. Richards name today.
Just as it has always been, the future is still in the hands of individuals and families who get involved -- and take the initiative to continue in the American traditions of hard work, generosity, preserverance, and above all -- faith in our communities.
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