The Boothbay Region Garden Club’s 2019 Home and Garden Tour on Friday, July 19, in Boothbay Harbor and Southport Island, could also be dubbed a walking tour as participants will traverse the iconic Boothbay Harbor footbridge to reach homes situated on either side of the harbor. The historic bridge that connects the east and west portions of the harbor was built in 1901 by Luther Maddocks, replacing a ferry that previously ran from one side to the other.

Chip Griffin, resident historian, has chronicled the early beginnings of the bridge and says of its creator, “Luther Maddocks was a mover and shaker and gave us a phenomenal memorial, our fabulous footbridge, which not only connects east and west sides but binds us all here on this peninsula. He accomplished this amazing feat in mere days, at almost no cost to the town and at significant sacrifice of his time, talent, and treasure. Through his leadership, he turned tides of public opinion while overcoming natural tides below our footbridge.”

Tour organizers Irene Gerny and Pat McMurry are delighted to have this beloved landmark play a part in the home and garden tour.

Ticket sales for the Home and Garden Tour will begin on June 1. Tickets can be purchased in person from the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce located at 192 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor, or directly from Irene Gerny (633-5052) or Pat McMurry (633-7405). Only cash or checks will be accepted for payment.