Belfast in Nine Stops
What to do and see and write about in Belfast?
It’s hard to know where to begin in Belfast. There is so much history in this little city. It has a fascinating array of architecture in both its business buildings, as well as private residences. I have visited frequently so it is not unfamiliar to me, yet I found this feature challenging to write due to the abundance of wonderful places and things. Three of the local Belfast history books I referenced were heavy volumes exceeding over two thousand pages in total.
Though it is only scratching the surface, I selected the following nine snippets of Belfast. They are not listed in any particular order, and many others could have been included. Perhaps this article will bring back some fond memories or inspire you to go explore Waldo County’s only city.
1. The Belfast National Bank
The Belfast National Bank building (photo included at the top of this feature) was built between 1878-79 in the High Victorian Gothic style. It stands out as one of the most unique structures in the city. You can find it at the intersection of Main and Beaver Streets
2. Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad
This railroad was completed in 1870. From Belfast, one could ride through numerous towns in Waldo County and end up at Burnham Junction. Despite its name, passengers were not able to get to Moosehead Lake from here, but access to the Maine Central Railroad—and thereby the national rail system—was possible. In 1926 alone, the train carried 12,000 tons of freight and 43,000 passengers.
In more recent times, the city developed the Belfast Rail Trail along the Passagassawaukeag River. Over two miles of trail have been designed for all those who want to enjoy the outdoors; the path is smooth enough for bicycles, strollers, and wheelchairs.
3. Belfast Free Library
The Belfast Library Society was organized in 1800. One enjoyable aspect of the library (aside from all the treasures on the shelves!) is the way in which the original building and the newer addition are connected. In its current layout, the library offers meeting rooms (one seats 75-100 people) and an art gallery.
4. Colburn Shoe Store
If you’re looking for the oldest shoe store in America, it’s here in Belfast. Its story started in 1832 with the Colburn family. The business was purchased by the Horne family in 1922.
I spoke with Colby Horne, the current owner, who confirmed that he is the fifth generation of his family to head the company!
How do you stay in business for nearly two centuries? There is more than one factor, but perhaps the most significant depends on your care of the customer. It’s Colburn’s speciality.
If you want to buy shoes and paper clips and laundry detergent and hot dogs in one place, you know where to go. But if you want someone who knows shoes and will take the time to get you fitted with the right match-up, you might want to to head over to Colburn’s on Main Street.
5. The First Church
The congregation of the First Church of Belfast was organized in 1796 and built this stately meetinghouse in 1818. According to the church, the building was not heated in its early years which led the minister to wear mittens while preaching!
6. Water Views for Days
If you enjoy time alongside the water, Belfast is the place to be. Beautiful Penobscot Bay can be observed from numerous locations, including Heritage Park, Steamboat Landing Park, and the Belfast City Park. A favorite activity for locals and visitors is to walk the Belfast Armistice Bridge. The views from it of the working harbor are arguably the best in Belfast.
7. Colonial Theatre
The iconic Colonial Theatre opened in 1912. A fire destroyed the original building in 1923. The company didn’t waste any time in rebuilding and was back in business the following year. Currently, the theatre is for sale.
8. Belfast City Hall
This municipal structure was built by Civil War veterans in 1890. They used the second floor for reunions and other meetings. The remainder of the space was leased to the city.
Belfast City Hall
8. Main Street, down to the water’s edge
Like much of the surrounding region, Belfast is a city of hills. If you’re moving toward the water, you will be quite literally “heading down Main Street.” Most of the buildings lining the way are made of brick. The region was devastated by fires in 1865 and 1873 before making the switch to something more flame resistant.
When you compare the present-day view of Belfast to that of photographs from a past century, you will have no trouble recognizing it. History fills every block.
Main Street Belfast heading down to the water.
9. Historical Society Museum
The Belfast Historical Society has done a remarkable job stewarding the history of this city. In addition to the museum, they have created numerous resources, including walking tours. Belfast is a participant in the Museum in the Streets project. Helpful pamphlets and guides are available just inside the museum’s main entrance.
Learning More
Below you will find a list of resources I found helpful during my research of Belfast. Those not available online may be located in a Maine library.
I cannot overstate the fact that the overview I’ve shared above is simply an introduction. Don’t let Belfast’s size trick you into thinking that you can explore it all in an afternoon!
BOOKS:
History of Belfast by Joseph Williamson
History of the City of Belfast in the State of Maine: From Its First Settlement in 1770 to 1875 by Joseph Williamson [second volume of the above]
History of Belfast in the 20th Century by Jay Davis & Tim Hughes with Megan Pinette
Redefining Irishness in a Coastal Maine City by Kay Retzlaff
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