A Journey Through Time

The Frenchville Historical Society is a custodian of our town’s storied past. Through dedicated preservation and education efforts, the society brings to life the rich tapestry of Frenchville’s history for residents and visitors alike.

Historical Landmarks and Artifacts

The “Caboose”

The Frenchville Historical Society proudly showcases a slice of history with our “Caboose” exhibit. This historic railcar, once a “Troop Sleeper Car” for soldiers during World War II, stands today as a testament to the evolution of our national and local transportation heritage.

Constructed by the Pullman Co. in 1943 and later converted by the B & A Railroad, this caboose has seen the changing landscapes of America and Frenchville alike. With a storied past and 71,000 pounds of steel and memories, it captures the imagination of all who visit. Acquired and refitted post-war, the caboose was operational until the early ’80s, playing an integral role in railroad operations. The dedicated efforts of local volunteers, including Bruce Thibeault’s Eagle Scout project, restored this railcar, giving it a new life as an educational exhibit.

Today, the caboose is more than an artifact; it’s a doorway to the past. Filled with books, antiques, and Frenchville memorabilia, it invites visitors to explore the rich tapestry of our town’s and our nation’s history.

The Green Water Tank

The “Green Water Tank,” a beacon of Frenchville’s past, stands as a cherished historical landmark and a guidepost for those new to our community. Constructed in 1910 by the B & A Railroad, this redwood structure with steel reinforcing rods has witnessed over a century of Frenchville’s growth and change.

Originally serving as a critical water supply for steam locomotives, the “Green Water Tank” was pivotal to the town’s early transportation needs. As the era of diesel engines dawned, the tank’s role evolved, finding new purpose as a reservoir for the Frenchville Fire Department.

In the mid-1980s, a group of dedicated volunteers and a burgeoning historical society assumed the care of this iconic structure. Their commitment to preserving the town’s history was evident when, in 1995, the “Green Water Tank” earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Station House

Adjacent to the tank stands the “Station House,” another relic of Frenchville’s rich railroad history. It served as the operational hub for station agents like Maxime Chasse, Joseph P. Babin, and Hercules Levesque, who played pivotal roles in the movement of goods and passengers through our town. Though the last agent, Delsie Charette, marked the end of the station’s original function, its story continues.

Today, the “Green Water Tank” and the “Station House” are more than just structures; they are tangible connections to Frenchville’s industrious origins. They are places where stories of the past are preserved and shared, inviting both residents and visitors to step back in time and appreciate the town’s journey.

Wylie House

The Wylie House houses artifacts from the late 19th Century and early 20th Century from Frenchville and surrounding areas including history of smuggling during Prohibition years. The Green Water Tank was built in 1910 by the B&A Railroad to hold 50,000 gallons of water. It was used for many years as a pit stop for trains passing through. Frenchville purchased the tank and used it for water storage for the fire department. The Station House was built in 1910 too and is located next to the Green Water Tank. It was in service from 1910 to 1971. Agents worked at the Station House to keep track of routes, rates, deliveries, and records. The Wylie House is open from 1:00pm to 4:00pm on Saturday and Sunday during the summer.

Historical Society Newsletters

Stay connected with Frenchville’s history through the society’s newsletters. Each issue is a treasure trove of stories, news, and updates on preservation initiatives:

Genealogy and Acadian Archives

Delve deeper into your roots with access to genealogical resources and Acadian archives available at:

UMFK Archives in Fort Kent: 207-834-7535, [email protected]
Long Lake Public Library in St. Agatha: 207-543-9395, [email protected]
Madawaska Public Library in Madawaska: 207-728-3606, [email protected]

The Historical Society is more than a guardian of the past; it is a gateway to understanding the vibrant cultural tapestry that is Frenchville today. We invite you to explore our history, engage with our stories, and celebrate the heritage that continues to enrich our present.

Historical Society