Discover the Oldest Settlement in Each U.S. State

Perched near the mouth of the Piscataqua River, Kittery was incorporated in 1647 and remains the oldest town in Maine. Early settlers were fishermen, shipbuilders, and traders who relied on the sea for their livelihood. Its shipyards soon gained a reputation that endured for centuries, supplying vessels for colonial commerce and military defense.

Kittery became a vital hub for maritime life in northern New England, blending practical work with cultural ties to England. The historic character still lingers in clapboard houses and quiet harbor views, giving visitors a glimpse into a town that never lost sight of its nautical roots.