Person:Melvin Wardwell (2)

"Graduated from Maine Conference Seminary in Bucksport in 1894 and from Bellevue Hospital Medical College on May 9, 1898. While attending these schools his early occupations included bellman in a hotel, bookkeeper, teacher, and steamboat agent. Until 1898, he practiced in Hancock, Maine. Thereafter in Penobscot, where he served as Superintendent of Schools (1900-1904); member of the Penobscot Board of Education; Treasurer of Penobscot (1907 & 1908); and Health Officer since 1899. He was a member of the Maine Medical Association; Free Mason; Order of Eastern Star and Independent Order of Forresters. His wife graduated from Eastern Maine Normal School, Castine." (The Wardwells of Massachusetts and Maine, Rev. Charles N. Sinnett, c1910)

In Penobscot at 1900, 1906, 1910, 1920 and 1930 census.

World War I Draft Registration Card says he was of medium height and build with dark blue eyes and brown hair.

From the Penobscot Bicentennial 1787-1987:

Dr. Melvin A. Wardwell, M.D. (1873 - 1934 ) Dr. Melvin A. Wardwell was born on May 7, 1873, at Penobscot, the son of Albert and Ruth (Perkins) Wardwell. Raised in Penobscot, he was graduated from Bucksport Seminary and the Bellevue Medical College of New York. He opened his general practice as a country doctor in 1898, and served the citizens of this town for the rest of his life.

Horse and wagon took him to many remote areas in the early days of his practice. Later, the Model A and the Model T Fords allowed him to attend to his patients at a much faster pace.

Interested in all civic work, he managed to find time to serve on the school board, and for a short term as Superintendent of Schools. He also served Penobscot as Town Treasurer for many years and was worshipful master of the Rising Star Lodge #177 of Free and accepted Masons.

In addition to his ability as a very competent and concerned medical doctor, he will be remembered as a tall, slender, handsome man, always immaculate in appearance, and very reserved and professional at times.

But, when most reserved, a warm and reassuring smile would often appear as though to say everything is going to be alright. He was also a very graceful dancer, and he and his wife Belve (Sellers), enjoyed the challenge of a beautiful gliding waltz, or leading the grand march at some of the Town Hall functions.

Dr. Wardwell and his wife had two children, Elliot and Albert. Their marriages have produced nine children to carry on the Wardwell ancestry. Even though Dr. Wardwell has been deceased over 50 years, he is still affectionately remembered as a wonderful country doctor.

1. ↑ World War I Draft Registration Card.
2. ↑ Mark E. Honey Genealogy 22 Meadowview Lane, Ellsworth, ME 04605.