Years ago, we took the Fall Leaf Tour on the East Coast. Fortunately for us, we were just ahead of a storm that was taking out much of the fall color. Part of the trip took us through Maine. We even drove through Acadia National Park, but I wish we’d had time to explore the Carriage Roads.
The Acadia National Park Carriage Roads
First, the views, like the one in today’s jigsaw puzzle, are stunning. But there’s another fascinating story here—one that is deeply intertwined with the park’s history and the vision of one man, John D. Rockefeller Jr. Come with me to visit this amazing place while we explore the early 20th-century craftsmanship, Rockefeller’s vision for preservation, and his love for the natural landscape.
The Vision of Rockefeller
John D. Rockefeller Jr. was struck by Mount Desert Island’s beauty and dismayed by the proliferation of automobiles in the early 1900s, which he felt disrupted the natural tranquility of the landscape. His vision was to create a network of carriage roads exclusively for carriages, hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. He wanted these visitors to enjoy the park’s beauty without the noise and pollution.
Construction and Design of the Acadia National Park Carriage Roads
Between 1913 and 1940, Rockefeller personally financed the construction of 45 miles of carriage roads. He even purchased additional land to ensure their completion. He was intimately involved in the design process, insisting that the roads blend with the natural landscape. This dedication to aesthetic harmony led to roads that followed the contours of the land, with sweeping curves and gentle grades that revealed stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Rockefeller employed hundreds of local workers. Thanks to his vision, the construction of the roads was a masterpiece of engineering and environmental sensitivity. The roads were built with a keen eye on drainage and sustainability. They incorporated deep ditches and carefully placed culverts. The uniquely designed bridges further protected against erosion to help withstand Maine’s harsh winters.
The Bridges of Acadia National Park
These images from Wikimedia show off one of the most remarkable features of the carriage roads—the 16 stone bridges. Each bridge has its own unique design. These bridges reflect the natural surroundings and often used local materials. Functional as well as works of art, the workers crafted the bridges to enhance the beauty of their locations.
Legacy and Preservation
Rockefeller’s contribution to Acadia did not end with the construction of the carriage roads. In 1940, he donated 10,000 acres of land, including the roads, to the federal government. This generous donation significantly expanded Acadia National Park and ensured the preservation of this unique transportation network for future generations.
Final thoughts and looking ahead
Today, the Acadia National Park carriage roads remain a beloved feature of the park, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape without the intrusion of motor vehicles. The National Park Service meticulously maintains the roads, ensuring that Rockefeller’s vision continues to provide a peaceful retreat into nature for all who visit.
Did you miss last week’s Friday Morning Post and jigsaw puzzle? If you did, you can use this link to view Awed by the Atchafalaya Basin now. If you want to check out all my posts and puzzles, click here.
10:33 while distracted by my barking dog!
4:54
8.59. Very calming and peaceful, much like the place O visited long ago. Clean air. Invigorating scenery. Thank you.
You’re welcome! This is truly one of those places I’d love to spend some time.
6:05 what a gorgeous view!
11:26 Such a lovely view.
Thank you.
7:00
5:04. I enjoyed the scene on this puzzle.
10:43 🙁
8:39. I visited Arcadia many times over the four years my daughter attended college in Bar Harbor. I hope to go back some day!
7:04 with distractions
5:44 for me this afternoon. beautiful!
My time was 10:17.
8:06