Friday, August 28, 2026 - 6:30PM

at the Outdoor Heritage Museum

George Henry Haynes (1835-1912): The Man and His Rangeley Lakes Guidebooks

presented by William B. Krohn

Historian William B. Krohn will share his fascinating research on George H. Haynes, a successful lumberman and general merchant in Winn, Maine. Supported by advertisers and Maine’s early railroads, Haynes traveled throughout Maine in the late 19th century selling advertisements in his exceptionally well-illustrated booklets that featured specific cities, hotels, and railroads serving a selected region. Between 1885 and 1899, Haynes published almost 60 titles primarily promoting Maine tourism (a few titles included New England resorts outside of Maine). His 78-page booklet Sportsmen's Paradise: Rangeley Lakes, Parmachenee, Kennebago, and Seven Ponds via Boston & Maine, Maine Central Railroad, and Sandy River Railroad (and similar titles) was one of his most successful booklets, being issued in seven editions. This presentation compares Haynes’s guidebooks to other, more widely known western Maine guidebooks. Although seldom cited today, students of Maine tourism and Maine’s outdoor history should consider Haynes’ guidebooks as ‘must use’ information sources. 

Doors open at 6PM. Enjoy complimentary beverages and self-guided tours of the museum before the presentation. 

$10 non-members / FREE for members

Space is limited - please register in advance by calling 207-864-3091 or emailing info@historicrangeley.org.