Maine and Vermont: Originally Part of Massachusetts Colony

Neither Maine nor Vermont was an original English colony. Both were originally part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony before achieving separate statehood.

Maine's Path

• 1620s-1650s: Separate patents (Gorges, Mason) but ineffective governance
• 1652: Massachusetts Bay Colony asserts control over southern Maine settlements
• 1691: Province of Massachusetts Bay charter formally includes Maine
• 1780s-1819: Growing separation movement (distance, different economy, War of 1812 neglect)
• March 15, 1820: Admitted as 23rd state via Missouri Compromise

Vermont's Path

• 1749-1764: New Hampshire Grants (Benning Wentworth) vs. New York claims
• 1777: Declares independent Vermont Republic (first to abolish slavery)
• 1777-1791: De facto independent; not recognized by US (NY opposition)
• 1790: NY relinquishes claims for $30,000
• March 4, 1791: Admitted as 14th state (first after original 13)

Massachusetts Connection

Both territories were administered under Massachusetts authority during critical formative periods—Maine directly for 130+ years, Vermont indirectly through land grant disputes. Their separations reflected distinct regional identities (maritime/forest vs. mountain/agrarian) and political negotiations.

Original 13 Colonies Context

Massachusetts was an original colony. Maine and Vermont became states 14 and 23—carved from Massachusetts claims, not founded as separate colonies.