Come to Washington County in spectacular Down East Maine and find the magic in our people, our place, our history, and our natural resources.
Incorporated May 13, 1988
Live, work, shop and play in all four seasons. Experience working waterfronts and picturesque harbors. Visit pre-Revolutionary War sites. Take a deep breath and relax along Maine’s Bold Coast.
From glacial lakes to saltwater bays and tidal marshes, this is the real Maine you have been dreaming of. Lobsters, blueberries, fresh garden produce – the Machias Bay area is teeming with bounty. Hiking, kayaking, canoeing, birding, whale watching… magic awaits you. Whether you are visiting or relocating, we welcome you to our very special part of the world!
The Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1983 and serves more than 30 communities along the Bold Coast. We have more than 220 members – both year round and seasonal businesses – that create an amazing network of support. Some of the services we offer include advertising and marketing our members to visitors that come to our Kilton Lane tourism center. We also offer ChamberBlue, a health insurance program for owners and employees. The Chamber also sponsors a dozen events and programs in the greater Machias area. These events bring people and money to local businesses, as well as create an atmosphere for growth and sustainability.
The Chamber’s restoration of Station 1898 is a project that benefits the entire region. The vintage railroad station, located in the heart of Machias and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, is a local treasure. In the fall of 2013, the Chamber had the interior painted to seal in lead paint, and electricity was restored. The Chamber obtained a Maine Historic Preservation Commission Belvedere Grant to continue renovations. Other grants continued to be sought; a capital campaign has been launched; and work on the exterior and part of the interior began in the spring of 2014 with the Chamber moving in later that year. Renovations continue, particularly restoring the baggage platform and locating a railroad museum in the two historic box cars on site. These efforts show that the train station is being returned to its rightful place as a landmark in Washington County and the hub of Machias. At least four local groups meet at the Chamber, community gatherings and governmental meetings are held there and hundreds of tourists seeking information are served.
Our Vision: We are a highly involved and respected Chamber of Commerce dedicated to building strong relationships throughout our community.
Our Mission: The Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce’s mission is:
- To provide leadership for a healthy and vibrant business environment and to encourage responsible economic growth that respects Washington County’s quality of life.
- To provide quality services, representation, and educational information to our members.
- To promote community involvement through the Chamber’s activities and events.