The Cumberland and Oxford Canal opened in June of 1830 to connect southern Maine’s large lakes with Portland and develop the interior parts of the state by providing a waterway that transported both people and materials. The 38-mile canal followed the Presumpscot River through multiple towns, including Westbrook, where it diverged from the river. In Westbrook, the canal had an adjacent towpath, including a horse bridge, and went from Stroudwater through Beaver Pond to Conant Street and then to the river. It declined with the advent of the railroad and ceased operations in 1872. Some portions of the abandoned canal still be seen.

The caption reads, "View of canal from Power House, Westbrook, Maine."

The Tichnor Brothers printing company published this type of postcard circa 1938.