Residential Ruins of Maine: Stories of Abandonment in Rural Maine

by Arend T. Thibodeau

Join us as we embark on an exploration of humanity's remnants, from time capsules that appear untouched for decades to abandoned places that have simply been forgotten. We'll look at some turn-of-the-century architecture, studying the Yankee craftsmanship and ingenuity that put New England on the map. We will examine items that have been left behind, with imagery capturing the unique geography and diverse lifestyles found throughout Maine. We will also explore the darker side of abandonment, including surreal encounters and an inn, built in 1865, purported to be haunted. These places, once thriving with human activity, now hold only fleeting traces of lives lived and lost. In addition to histories and factoids of locations, this book explores the folklore and urban legends surrounding the buildings, and muses on their relevance and possible veracity. Finally, personal anecdotes and poetry are offered to try and connect the viewer with the evocative nature of the images.

96 pages, Paperback

Published September 25, 2023

Reviews

[Jennifer Fitzpatrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection of photos of ruins is proof of the author’s poetic statement ‘in the waning light we are reminded all things beautiful fade away.” Well organized and annotated, the photos leave one wanting more narrative … more of the history, more of the lore, more of the location, and more of the story but less ‘spooky’ factor. The photos are excellent, making their stories a good read.

[Danielle Gamache · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful collection of photos from all around Maine...some structures I recognize from my own explorations. Each photo and chapter is well-descripted and the photos leave you wondering why these places were abandoned so many years ago.

[jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The pictures leave you wondering about people and their lives and what goes on behind closed doors. The text needs a little help.