The Legacy of Old Town Canoe Company
9/9/2025
Crafted by the Current: The Legacy of Old Town Canoe. In Central Maine, our story flows with the rivers, and few have shaped it quite like Old Town Canoe.
Learn how Old Town Maine shaped the story of Old Town Watercraft:
In the heart of Maine, our community is filled with rich history, natural wonders, and cultural gems just waiting to be explored. At Hotel Ursa, we aim to show travelers, UMaine visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts a glimpse into what makes the history of this area so special.
A Maine-Made Legacy
Founded in 1898 by A.E. Wickett and inspired by the traditional watercraft of the Penobscot Nation, Old Town Canoe has been building boats with care, curiosity, and craftsmanship for more than 120 years. Incorporated in 1903, the company grew quickly, employing many local Penobscot and becoming a cornerstone of the community. Today, Old Town is a global name in paddling, with canoes and kayaks built right here in Maine, and seen everywhere from our own Penobscot River to the shores of Australia.
The Penobscot River
The Penobscot River has always been more than a body of water, it’s a source of life, identity, and resilience. The Penobscot Nation has lived along these shores for millennia, and the river remains sacred. European explorers, industrialists, and loggers followed, shaping the region’s growth and economy. From the Revolutionary War to papermaking booms to restoration projects in recent years, this river holds generations of stories, some painful, some proud, all enduring.
Paddle Orono, Maine
Pushaw Lake
Gentle and scenic, Pushaw Lake is perfect for peaceful paddling. Rentals are available from local outfitters like Old Town Canoe, so you can glide through nature, gear in hand, just a few miles from downtown.
Penobscot River
For a more dynamic day on the water, explore the river that inspired it all. With both calm stretches and active rapids, the Penobscot is ideal for adventurous paddlers. Rentals and guided excursions are available our friends at Maine Bound.
Plan Your Stay at Hotel Ursa:
Whether you're chasing river currents, exploring Maine history, or simply escaping for the weekend, Hotel Ursa is your perfect basecamp. Located on the University of Maine campus, our hotel connects guests with the outdoors, the past, and the present. Explore exclusive packages and seasonal offers at Hotel Ursa.
Explore Now (https://hotelursa.com/offers)