A Walk through Agassiz's History

 

What connection do Barnum & Bailey’s Circus and a World War II freighter have to Agassiz Village? Which U.S. president financially supported Agassiz, and which First Lady visited the campus? What legendary composer led one of his final concerts on the grounds of Agassiz?

 

Agassiz Village not only has a rich and varied history, but its expansive campus has become a popular destination point for runners, walkers, and locals who simply want to enjoy the beauty of its setting along the shores of Thompson Lake in Poland, Maine. Because of the numerous requests we receive for tours, we will soon offer a new permanent fixture to our campus that will allow guests to tour the grounds on their own.

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In May 2025, as part of our yearlong 90th Anniversary Celebration, we will open the AV HistoryWalk, a self-guided walking tour that will allow visitors to stroll around our grounds while learning the remarkable history of our camp. There will be 12 points of interest in all, each describing an iconic building or structure and the history behind it. The HistoryWalk will provide a memorable look at the unique events that have shaped Agassiz Village.

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AV HistoryWalk Stations

 

1 - Agassiz Village

This station is the welcome point for the HistoryWalk and offers a brief history of Agassiz Village. Visitors taking the tour can pick up a map of the campus. Located across from the staff office.

 

2 - Totem Pole

The original totem pole carved by indigenous Alaskans was lost during a storm. On the site it once stood now stands a new totem pole created with the help of the hit TV show, Maine Cabin Masters. Located between the Staff Office and the Dining Hall.

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3 - Dining Hall

The most iconic building on the Agassiz campus. The dining hall was built in 1939 from logs taken from the campus and was once considered the largest freestanding log cabin in the United States. Located in the center of the Agassiz campus.

 

4 - Burroughs and Agassiz Cabins

The Burroughs Cabin was named after Mr. & Mrs. Harry E. Burroughs, who founded Agassiz in 1925. The Agassiz Cabin is named after Maximilian Agassiz, who donated the last $10,000 so the camp could be purchased for children. Located next to the Dining Hall.

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5 - Miller

Named after former Agassiz Village Executive Director Arthur G. Miller, this building houses counselors, a fitness center, and the facilities staff. Located next to the Health Center.

 

6 - Maloney

Built in the 1950s to accommodate handicapped children who came to Agassiz, this building is the only brick structure on site. It houses camp counselors during summer sessions. Located in front of Pioneer Village.

 

7 - Waterfront

Agassiz Village has over two miles of shoreline along beautiful Thompson Lake as well as two private islands. It has been the hub of activity at Agassiz for over 100 years.

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8 - Serenity Cabin

Serenity Cabin is a library for camper and staff use. All SEL programs for summer sessions are held in this building. Located next to the Amphitheater.

 

9 - Town Hall

One of three remaining structures from the original Camp Maqua, the Town Hall was used as a meeting-place in the early days of Agassiz. It is now used for talent shows and theater productions. Located next to Serenity Cabin.

 

10 - Gazebo

The gazebo once housed a merry-go-round and Wurlitzer organ purchased from Barnum & Bailey’s Circus. It was repaired by the crew from the hit TV show Maine Cabin Masters in 2017. Located in front of Voyagers Village.

 

11 - Ship’s Bell

The ship’s bell is from the USS Hammondsport, a World War II freighter. There are no records of how the bell ended up at Agassiz, but it has become a treasured part of the campus. Located near the Gazebo.

 

12 - Sheriff’s Office

Agassiz was originally modeled on a New England town. The sheriff’s office was the holding location of any boy who committed an offense and was awaiting trial by a jury of his peers. Located next to the Staff Office.

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