Review Essay: In Lieu of a Review: Context

David R. Jones

Goose Eye No. 5 (2025)

Review Essay

In Lieu of a Review: Context

David R. Jones

Local history: writing it, reading it, viewing it in a museum, we need to keep a bigger picture in mind; all and other parts of Maine and northern New England. An understanding of major trends in American history – democratization, commercialization, industrialization, urbanization, etc. – is fundamental. The changing place of the small town, agriculture, the family farm, small scale industry and commerce, are essentials. Beyond that, or closer to home lie the many histories that particularly affect Western Maine.

A good survey is a good place to start. Barry’s Maine is informative and lively. In Judd et al’s Maine, specialists address important aspects of Maine’s history, including industry, transportation, arts, revolution and Civil War…