We let inspiration flow when Asa’s World Tour of Maine rolled into Lisbon. Located along the Androscoggin and Sabattus Rivers, the Abenaki called the falls Anmecangin, meaning “much fish.” The colonists later named the settlement Little River. In 1799 it was incorporated as the town of Thompsonborough, in honor of a large land owner in the area. Some sources say this Maine town was renamed Lisbon in 1802 due to Thompsonborough being too long and difficult to spell. While others say it was changed because the majority of the residents did not agree with General Samuel Thompson’s political views. Either way, it was renamed after Lisbon in Portugal, but none of my sources seem to be able to explain why they chose it. Today Lisbon’s claim to fame is the Moxie Festival, which celebrates the official soft drink of Maine, Moxie.
Asa: You mean I’m playing the distinctly different Moxie Festival!
Chuck Billy: No, we missed that date, held the second weekend in July each year. But don’t worry, you are going to rock Lisbon, Maine!
Asa: Check out the joke on the town sign! “What did one ocean say to the other ocean? Nothing, it just waved.” This town has a sense of humor! Maybe I should do my comedy routine instead? I can hear the roar of laughter coming from the audience already!
Chuck Billy: That’s actually the river, you hear. Stop fishing for compliments!
Asa: What did the tree wear to the pool party? Swimming trunks!
Chuck Billy: *groan* That was awful!
Chuck Billy: Focus! You have a concert to rock here at the Miller Park Papermill Road Trail.
Asa: Alright, I’ll stick with the plan! I’ll hang out backstage and wait for you to log on with the show details.
Chuck Billy: You are incorrigible! Now stop sitting there like a stone, it is time to get rolling!
Asa: You weren’t joking! This place really rocks!
Asa: Thank you, Chuck Billy. As my tour manager, I promise to follow your advice and never take you for granite…oops I mean granted.
Chuck Billy: Enough with the goofy Golden puns! Time to get back to the tour bus and hit the road for the 8th stop on Asa’s World Tour of Maine!
