Walking Through History
Saturday, September 13th, 2008
Fall Gambo Property Walk

On Saturday, September 13th, the PRLT hosted a walk at the PRLT’s own Gambo property in Gorham. Formerly owned by the Shaw Brothers, this parcel was gifted to the PRLT in 1995. The property includes 5 acres that are open to the public. Historical structures still remain of the original Oriental Powder Mills (also called Gambo Powder Mills and Gorham-Windham Powder Mills) developed in 1817 and the original Cumberland Oxford Canal Towpath. Since ownership, the PRLT has restored numerous sections of the property, including renovations to some of the powder mill foundations and a section of the towpath, and developed a ¾ mile walking path at the site of the Mills and the Canal. In early 2008, the PRLT waterproofed the kiosk and trail bridges, re-positioned a walk bridge back up on one of the former powder mill foundations, and rebuilt portions of the trail.

Historical reference for this area notated in The Gunpowder Mills of Maine, by Maurice Whitten include the following- “The most important gunpowder mill in Maine in the nineteenth century was commonly called the “Gambo Powder Mill” because it was located at Gambo Falls on the Presumpscot River. The first powder mill buildings were erected on the Gorham side of the River, but after being in operation about ten years, extensive developments took place on the Windham side of the River. Facts which substantiate the importance of the “Gambo Mill” include: it was the first commercial powder mill built in Maine and was in operation longer than any other Maine mill; it was the largest mill of its kind in Maine and among the largest in the nation for many years.”

The PRLT Gambo walk featured local historian Maurice Whitten, and PRLT Board Members Will Plumley & Richard Curtis. Thank you to Maurice, Will & Richard for providing such a wealth of information about this property. And to all those who attended this great day.