Few persons realize the number of men who are employed in the winter months in the Maine woods in addition to those in the camps of lumbermen. There are hundreds of them. They are little known or heard of by the outside world, although their products all get to market. Among them are the gum picker, the hoop-pole gatherer, the hemlock bark peelers, the Indian, the trapper, the ax handle maker, etc.

50 Years Ago, 1956

Executive Councilor Walter W. Haynes of Lewiston said last night he will ask for a meeting between Twin City officials and the State Highway Commission to discuss construction of a new bridge between Lewiston and Auburn.

“I have received many complaints lately from persons who have been caught in traffic near North Bridge,” said Haynes. “Each year the traffic congestion near both North and South bridges gets worse and it is particularly bad in the summer months.”

Traffic count figures released by the highway department show that North Bridge is now the most heavily traveled bridge in the State.

Traffic on the bridge has increased in the last six years from an average daily volume of 20,055 vehicles in 1949 to 22,225 vehicles a day in 1955.

25 Years Ago, 1981

Woods operator Ellery Corson of Sumner has two ways of cutting timber in wood lots. He has a skidder which his son operates and he has a pair of horses named “Rowdy” and “Bob” which he usually handles himself. The skidder requires gas and oil for energy. Rowdy and Bob give their energy in return for daily feed, bedding and tender loving care, though they do have to be trucked to their destination anywhere in this part of Maine.

Corson is well known at the fall fairs in the horse pulling circles. His horses work well for him and take their share of ribbons and prizes.

In the past he has brought his team and sled to Buckfield and other areas for hayrides.

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