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 Located
in Western Maine, Norway historically served as a trading center for the
surrounding area. Prosperous sawmills, textile mills, tanneries, saddle
manufacturers and shoe factories were key industries located downtown, which
accommodated major retail and wealthy residential neighborhoods. In 1894 a
fire destroyed most of the eastern end of Main Street, and the great
reconstruction that followed is a defining period in Norway’s history. Most of the rebuilt structures stand today. According to the Maine Historic
Preservation Commission, downtown Norway displays some of the best examples
of period architecture to be found anywhere in Maine. Seventy-two of these
remarkable buildings are listed on the National Historic Register of Historic
Places and compose Norway’s Historic District.
Since
1950 Norway’s traditional economy is no longer; however, Norway Downtown
plays a significant role in building on Main Street’s current assets and its
cultural strengths. A 2002 CDBG made possible two new Main Street green
spaces. The Butters Park now greets visitors at the western gateway and the Town Square opposite the Opera House is the attractive location of the information kiosk.
This year a façade program improved eight historic Main Street buildings.
Norway
Downtown continues to work with the town to improve the presentation  and gateways of Main Street and to bring and retain businesses to meet the community’s needs, but, also to
attract visitors who would enjoy a remarkable Main Street experience. A new
Norway Downtown Map and Guide celebrates Norway’s history and culture, as
well, it gives up-dated information.
Norway
Downtown is a leading player in dealing with a trio of threatened buildings -
the Opera House, the Gingerbread House, and the Oddfellows Hall. All three
are significant Main Street buildings. A positive balance to this problem is
the commitment of Norway Savings Bank to Main Street with the renovation of
two buildings for their offices and of Western Maine Health who purchased the
former Cummings Mill property for future needs.
Norway’s Main Street serves
its residents (pop. 4,566) and invites visitors to experience a village.
Walk a mile to meet your needs.
Since being designated a Main Street Maine
community, downtown Norway’s revitalization efforts have resulted in:
•3 net new businesses
•$2 million in new public and private
downtown investment
•Over 2,000 volunteer hours
•14 net new jobs
•For every $1 invested in the Norway Downtown program, an additional $4 have been invested in downtown Norway
For more
information on the Norway Downtown, please go to their website.
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