by Hope M. Shelley (Author)
Long before Maine became known as Vacationland in the 1890s, Wells beckoned promoters and guests from the inland cities of New England. During the 1850s and 1870s two grand hotels, complete with entertainment centers, accommodated these visitors. By 1885 the hotels had been destroyed by fires, but they were replaced with smaller boarding houses and private cottages. Beginning with the wealthy mill owners and industrialists and then expanding to include the working class, Wells' tourist industry has thrived for more than a century. Summer visitors have experienced Wells' multitude of natural resources. Miles of beach, rock-bound coast, and refreshing seabreezes beckon vacationers to return annually. In turn, Wells' economy, landscape, and development has catered to the needs of both these visitors and the year-round residents.