Augusta

Augusta, the capital of Maine, U.S., on the Kennebec, 63 miles NNE. of Portland by rail. It stands at the head of regular navigation, but small steamers run 18 miles higher. A dam, 17 feet high, affords considerable water-power, which is rendered available by a canal along the west bank, on which side the city is principally built. There are several cotton and other mills, and in 1886 a new system of waterworks was introduced. Besides the state-house and other administrative buildings, Augusta contains a U.S. arsenal; and at Togus, 4 miles distant, is situated one of the national institutions for disabled soldiers, with accommodation for 1350 persons. Pop. (1880) 8665; (1890) 10,527.