The magnificent elms which merged to form a leafy arch across Thomaston’s broad Main Street were the result of a planting campaign at the time of the American Centennial in 1876.

These graceful trees would be swept away by the Dutch Elm disease a century later, leaving this grand thoroughfare of sea captains’ homes with a barren appearance.

But in the early 20th century, two dogs could leisurely cross this shaded dirt road, which was populated by trolley tracks, a horse and buggy, and wagons.

Note the unusual wagon at the left built to haul newly made lime casks to the lime kilns on Rockland, Rockport, or Thomaston harbors.

Catalog Number LB2007.1.102728