A Little Maid of Old Maine

by Alice Turner Curtis

"A Little Maid of Old Maine" by Alice Turner Curtis is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set during the time of the American Revolution and follows two young girls, Anna and Rebecca Weston, as they navigate life in a remote Maine settlement. The narrative focuses on their adventures, their longing for news and supplies from the coastal ships, and their involvement in the growing tensions of the war, including the symbolic act of raising a liberty pole. At the start of the tale, we find Anna and Rebecca excitedly on their way to gather pine chips for their mother, but they are also preoccupied with the arrival of a ship, the "Polly", which is bringing much-needed supplies. Their father, Mr. Weston, is involved in discussions about putting up a liberty pole to symbolize their commitment to American independence. The opening portion introduces the characters’ relationships, particularly the tension between Rebecca's desire for maturity and Anna's more adventurous spirit. As they interact with neighbors and navigate their daily chores, underlying themes of courage, loyalty, and the girls' companionship begin to emerge, setting the stage for their upcoming challenges amidst the revolutionary fervor.