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Close-Knit Community That Takes Care of Its Own
Coffee and the local news can be
found at Jordan Bros. Garage early in the morning before most go off
to work and again when the workday is done. Of course, the news is
how the men report the story! Oftentimes, the stories become better
as the day goes on. Camaraderie, coffee and conversation are alive
and well at the corner of 179 and Route 200.
Former Town Hall on Route 179 was also home, on the second
floor, to the Grange. The building is now privately owned. |
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COLLECTION OF
MARTHA JORDAN/COURTESY OF PAUL AND VERNA JORDAN |
While the names
on the mailboxes seem to be all the same, Waltham is home to many
families. A few move in, stay awhile, and then move on, but the
majority of the residents have been born and raised right here in
town.
The town is
proud of the many who have served and are currently serving our
country in the Armed Forces. While the only “hangout” is the local
garage, people look out for one another and help when and where they
can. Waltham takes care of its own.
Not so long
ago, the Extension, Help-Somehow-Club, Grange and a Snowmobile Club
were where the action was found. Sadly, these activities have died
out. The Volunteer Fire Department has found new strength and
membership over the past five years, while the Ladies’ Auxiliary
continues to support the firefighters. The Fire Department is proud
to have five EMTs (Emegency Medical Technicians) and one First
Responder on board. The fire fighting capabilities grow with newer
equipment and monthly training.
The Waltham
Baptist Sunday School meets weekly April through December.
The lack of a
store and gas station causes the residents to seek the necessities
in nearby Eastbrook, Franklin and Ellsworth. Some small town
connections have been lost due to the pull of the city and all that
Ellsworth has to offer. Many people head down Route 179 on their way
to work, while several still call the logging industry their life’s
work.
Of course,
there is no doubt what many are doing the month of August. Blueberry
growers and rakers are working hard in the heat to harvest the crop.
Dropping prices for growers and loggers and competition from Canada
plague Waltham workers.
Youth
activities are strongly supported by the community. Spectators from
other towns are hard pressed to find a seat when Cave Hill plays a
game. Residents come out in full force to support our children.
Families and hard work are the backbone of this community. |
