Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island as part of Hancock County, was established in 1763 (inc. 1796) as Eden. This booming resort town was given its current name in 1918. From then on this part of the island, though only 42 square miles in size, has fed the appetites of travelers, vacationers, artists, writers and residents consistently.
When I first started learning about this town, I had no idea that it was part of an island. My assumption was that it was along the coast of the mainland. I also didn't realize so few populated this town. When the last census was taken in 1990, the estimated count was 4,443. I guess I have grown a little too accustomed to my big city crowds with heavy traffic and pedestrians walking the streets year round.
During October of 1947, there was a forest fire that devestated the majority of the town. This fire was often referred to as the "great fire" because there was so much destruction to recover from. Once the damages were repaired and the residents recovered, it was business as usual for this growing resort town.
Some of the many attractions you will find when visiting are:
All these sites coupled with the many camp grounds, restaurants, fishing areas and shops could easily fill a weekend and longer if you have the time. Oftentimes you will find authors and artists seeking inspiration from the many tranquil environments located in this part of the island. Though there are a lot of tourists lurking about, it is very possible to find the solitude you are craving.
For more information about Bar Harbor, Maine you can follow this link:
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce
or write to the following address:
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 158
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609
1-207-288-5103
e-mail: visitors@barharborinfo.com
All the links embedded within this article are also what I used as my resources when learning about this town.
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