Skowhegan Community History

by Jenna Jones and Jaime Bacon

In 1895, the Somerset Traction Company of Skowhegan created a small amusement park on the little lake called Lake Wesserunsett in Lakewood Grove. In previous years, it had been a Native American settlement. Later that year, the park became formally known as Lakewood Theater. The small, yet enjoyable park, brought both amusement and theatrical features to the towns nearby.

A Madison Spiritualist group was one of the first groups to construct on the site. They began building around the year 1882. The hall was bought by William Hayden who put new floors in it. He was originally going to use the hall as a skating rink.

Later Herbert Lindsey Swett became manager of Lakewood Theater. It is because of him that Lakewood is what it is today. The major changes in Lakewood began to appear around 1899, shortly after Mr. Swett became head of management, and a new theater addition was added. The Palladium Windows were rebuilt in the Trolley Room, which now feature a lovely view of the Lake.

Lakewood became very important in the years between 1925 and 1941 and soon after earned the nickname "Broadway In Maine."

Many of the unique features of the past have been retained in the three dining areas of the building. The wood and wainscoting are original as are the fireplaces.

Lakewood is truly a unique treasure that we should always value for its entertainment and its general greatness. Without Lakewood Theater, Skowhegan and Madison might be just ordinary towns, but Lakewood that sets us apart.

Research for this essay provided by Skowhegan History House.