Cool Respite in Summertime: Childhood Memories of Windham's Waterways

In the sweltering days of summer, residents of Windham, Maine, once sought refuge in the area's natural waterways. From the Pleasant River's cascading falls to the refreshing ponds and lakes, these aquatic sanctuaries provided a much-needed escape from the oppressive heat. Through the recollections of longtime locals, we uncover the cherished memories of a bygone era when summer fun was found in the simple pleasures of splashing, swimming, and cooling off in Windham's beloved waterways.

Rediscovering Windham's Aquatic Oases

Memories of the Pleasant River's Waterfall Retreat

Growing up in the Popeville neighborhood of Windham during the 1960s, Walter Lunt found solace in the cool waters of the Pleasant River. A half-mile downstream from the Pope Road bridge, a small waterfall became a popular gathering spot for local children seeking relief from the summer heat. "The water always stayed cool, no matter how hot the day was," Lunt reminisced. "The river widened slightly above the falls, and it was the perfect spot of cool in the middle of a summer day." Lunt fondly recalled the shock of that first step into the deep, chilly waters, followed by the blissful sensation of being immersed in the refreshing respite.

Exploring Nearby Ponds and Beaches

While the Pleasant River's waterfall was a favorite haunt for Lunt and his peers, other Windham residents found their own aquatic oases. Linda Morrell, who grew up in the later 1960s, recalled summer days when her family would venture to Sabbathday Pond in Gray or Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth for a day of swimming. As a teenager, Morrell and her friends would bike to the North Gorham dam to cool off, careful to avoid the dangerous waters near the dam itself. For Tim Morrell, growing up on a farm on Route 202 meant having a man-made pond on the property, providing a convenient place to beat the heat. He also fondly remembered building a small raft and exploring Little Duck Pond (now the East Windham Conservation Area) during a particularly memorable summer.

The Annual Pilgrimage to Old Orchard Beach

In addition to the local waterways, some Windham families made the annual pilgrimage to the iconic Old Orchard Beach. Rita Bernier, a child of the Great Depression, vividly recounted these family trips, where they would spend the day swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the amusement rides and games along the boardwalk. "We all looked forward to that day every year," Bernier said, reminiscing about the excitement of receiving a quarter to spend on the various attractions.

Enduring Summer's Challenges without Modern Comforts

Despite the absence of modern air conditioning and heat pumps, the residents of Windham found creative ways to cope with the summer's oppressive heat. Whether it was jumping into the Presumpscot River after completing their farm chores or seeking refuge in the cool waters of the area's lakes and ponds, the children of the last century learned to embrace the simple pleasures of summertime. These cherished memories serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of a community that found joy and respite in the natural wonders that surrounded them.