Calling all young explorers and history detectives! Join Jennifer Sala, Chair of the Ellsworth Historic Preservation Commission and board member of the Ellsworth Historical Society, for a fun and interactive walk along the river trail behind the Ellsworth Public Library.

On this kid-friendly adventure, participants will sleuth out hidden clues from the past. Along the way, young historians will learn how to "read" the landscape, uncover traces of Ellsworth’s past like slag, and get a super simple introduction to archaeology.

This walk is all about curiosity and discovery, perfect for kids who love mysteries, digging into history, or just exploring the outdoors. Put on your detective hats, bring your sharpest observation skills, and get ready to uncover the secrets of Ellsworth’s past!

Step into the past as we explore the evolving landscapes of Church, High, and Pine Streets, uncovering how Ellsworth’s downtown has transformed over time. Using historic maps and photos, we’ll compare today’s streetscapes with their appearances from the 1880s to the 1940s, revealing layers of history hidden in plain sight.

Through the lens of cultural geography, we’ll examine how businesses, residences, and public spaces have shifted in response to economic booms, fires, changes in transportation, and the evolving needs of the community. As we walk, we’ll discuss how past generations shaped these streets—and how their choices continue to influence the city’s character today.

One key stop will be the former site of the Unitarian Church at the corner of High and Main Streets. When the building was demolished (for reasons we’ll explore), it set off a ripple effect in local preservation efforts—one that still impacts Ellsworth’s approach to historic conservation today.

The tour begins in Ellsworth’s historic district, proceeding down Church Street, where we’ll use maps and photos to compare past and present streetscapes. Crossing Main Street, we’ll walk along the section of High Street where 19th-century structures remain, then turn onto Pine Street, concluding at a local food and drink hub on Pine Street.

Participants may park at City Hall and use the public restrooms at the library before the tour begins. While we will pause at various points to examine photos and maps, there will be no formal rest stops until the final stop. The tour is expected to take 60–75 minutes.

Accessibility:
The tour will walk along uneven sidewalks, and will cross Main Street at the crosswalk. Most of the walk will be on the sidewalks of side streets, and comfortable shoes are suggested. There will be some incline and some decline in elevation along this walk. Motorized wheelchairs may find the uneven sidewalks and lack of cut curbs inaccessible.

Starting Location:
Meet in front of the Old Jail (brick structure at 40 State Street), which is across from City Hall Parking Lot, uphill from the Library (20 State Street) and downhill from the Court House (50 State Street)

Ending Location:
Food and drink hub, with access off Hancock Street, two blocks from City Hall Parking Lot and beginning of the walking tour.

25 Pine St., entrance off Hancock St.
Ellsworth, Maine 04605

Join us Sunday, June 22, at 1 p.m. for a 1920s themed train ride with refreshments and live music. Tickets are $30 and benefit the Ellsworth Historical Society.