History of the
woolen mill.

The Woolen Mill

Manufacturing on the Ossipee.

In 1880, George Towle, Elijah Fox, and John Devereux saw the manufacturing possibilities of the Ossipee River, and recognized the need for employment in the area. On the site of a former saw mill, they raised the original woolen mill building and organized the Kezar Falls Woolen Manufacturing Co.

After a difficult start, Allen Garner was engaged in 1881 as an agent to superintend the setting of machinery and to run production. He eventually owned the mill outright, and its success was due largely to his shrewd judgment, leadership, and untiring effort. Local citizens who had made their living from farming left the fields to work here, and the mill became a critical part of the growth of the village and the surrounding area.

The Garner family owned the mill until they sold it to Robinson Manufacturing in 1962. At its height, the Kezar Falls Woolen Mill employed 330 people across two shifts and secured government contracts making Army and Navy uniforms and blankets through both World Wars.

The Area

A hidden gem in the heart of Maine.

Kezar Falls is a charming village nestled in the southernmost county of Maine, a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. At the crossroads of state routes 25 and 160, this often-overlooked spot offers a blend of rural tranquility and vibrant community life.

History of Kezar Falls

Located in the town of Parsonsfield, the area was first settled in 1785 and originally known as Porterfield, after early settler Dr. Aaron Porter. The name later changed to Parsonsfield in honor of Thomas Parsons, one of the town's most influential figures. The village of Kezar Falls, named for the Kezar River that runs through it, became a bustling hub of industry and commerce in the 19th century, with mills, factories, and shops lining its streets.

Landmarks & attractions

The Parsonsfield-Porter Bridge, a historic covered bridge built in 1859, is a must-see for history lovers. The Kezar River, with its waterfalls and scenic trails, is a haven for those who love the outdoors. And Main Street, lined with 19th-century buildings, offers shops, restaurants, and galleries to explore.