About Stow

Welcome to Stow,
a charming rural town nestled in the scenic foothills of the White Mountain National Forest in western Maine.

With a rich history dating back to its incorporation in 1833, Stow remains a close-knit community known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and peaceful way of life. Our town is home to stunning landscapes, including the Cold River and the picturesque Bickford Slides waterfall, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Despite our small size, Stow offers a strong sense of community and a commitment to preserving our heritage and environment. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, we invite you to explore our town, enjoy the scenic trails, and experience the welcoming spirit that makes Stow a special place to call home.

Town History

Stow, Maine, was incorporated in 1833 and has deep roots in the region’s agricultural and logging industries. Originally inhabited by the Pequawket people, the area was a seasonal travel route for Native American communities moving between the Saco River Valley and the coast. European settlers were drawn to Stow for its fertile land, abundant forests, and access to waterways like the Cold River, which played a vital role in the early timber trade. For generations, farming and logging remained the backbone of the local economy, shaping the town’s rural character.

Pre-1770s: The land that would become Stow was historically inhabited by the Pequawket Native American community, who utilized the Cold River and its surrounding resources.
Circa 1770: English settlement in the area begins, with pioneers drawn to the natural resources of the Cold River valley.
1803: John Brickett, a prominent early settler, arrives in the Cold River valley, beginning the process of establishing his homestead.
1812-1816: John Brickett constructs the Brickett Place, a significant and enduring historic brick farmhouse, built with hand-hewn timbers and handmade bricks. It stands as the oldest known structure in the area.
1820: John Brickett purchases a 50-acre parcel of land surrounding his newly built home for $100, securing ownership of his homestead.
January 28, 1833: Stow is officially incorporated as a town in Oxford County, Maine. This incorporation included land from Bradley and Eastman's Grants and Fryeburg Addition, establishing its formal boundaries.
Circa 1840: The Stone House, another historic farmstead built from split granite blocks, is constructed in North Stow, reflecting the agricultural growth of the town.
1863: John Brickett, the early settler and builder of the Brickett Place, passes away. His farm is willed to his son, Gardner.
1877: Gardner Brickett sells the Brickett Place, which would then change hands several times over the next few decades.
1880s: Stow's economy is primarily based on natural resources, supporting sawmills, a grist mill, a carriage factory, and a blacksmith's shop. The town's population is recorded at 401, similar to its 2010 population.
1918: The United States Forest Service acquires the Brickett Place, recognizing its historical significance and preserving it for future generations.
1930s: The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) maintains a camp at Cold River, reflecting broader efforts for conservation and infrastructure development during the Great Depression.
2020: The population of Stow is recorded as 393 residents in the U.S. Decennial Census.
Present Day: Stow remains a small, rural town, known for its scenic beauty and serving as a gateway to the White Mountain National Forest, offering a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities.