The Sagadahoc Fertilizer Co., was established in 1880 and consisted of Wm. B. and Edward P. Kendall. It was located in the old plaster mill on the Cathance River across from the bridge. The first batch of fertilizer was mixed in a tin pail, and stirred with an iron spoon. The Dirigo fertilizer for grass and grain was the first brand made, and proved very successful. The old factory burned and the new one was built on its present location.

The business was sold twice, but the name Sagadahoc Fertilizer Co., has been maintained. At the present time a prosperous business is carried on under the management of Avery M. Fides, Gen'l Mgr., Orr's Island, Maine.

The W. B. and E. P. Kendall grain mill was located on the opposite side of the Cathance River from the fertilizer factory and near the railroad tracks. The power for grinding the corn was supplied by a tide water wheel, which was invented by James M. Kendall who formerly carried on the grain business. The mill burned in 1907, and the business was moved to a large shed nearby where it was conducted until it was moved to the new mill, which is now occupied by the E. Andrew Peterson Co., Patent Leather Finishers.

In Bowdoinham was located one of the State's outstanding sheep ranches, Long Branch Sheep Farm, owned by William B. Kendall, one of Maine's far seeing men. For many years Mr. Kendall worked at the sheep raising in Maine. He contended that sheep could be raised here to as great advantage as in the old days. Gradually his belief and efforts bore fruit until it was the largest sheep farm in New England. He raised not only grades but registered sheep, and won many blue ribbons at the Fairs. GEORGIA DENHAM

Bicentennial Booklet 1962