History of the Maine Coon
The Maine Coon cat is one of the most famous cat breeds in New England and throughout the United States. They are the hardiest, furriest, and largest of all domesticated cat breeds kept in homes around the Western world. Apart from their good looks and gentle personalities, their history is also quite mysterious. Their origins are made up more of folklore and theory than proven facts, which is part of what makes the Maine Coon so captivating.
As one of the original native cat breeds of the United States, the Maine Coon is known for adapting to the harsh winters and rugged environment of the state of Maine. The cold climate and distance between settlements helped the breed remain relatively unmixed for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, very little is truly known about how they arrived there in the first place.
There are several theories surrounding the origins of the Maine Coon, some more fairy tale than fact, and others that lean closer to science fiction than science. None have ever been proven, and their mysterious beginnings have become part of the breed’s enduring charm.
Cat + Wild Animal Theory
One of the most common theories surrounding the Maine Coon’s origins is that they are a hybrid. Some believed they were bred from domesticated cats and raccoons, while others thought they may have descended from cats and bobcats.
Scientifically, neither theory is possible. Cats and raccoons are entirely different species and cannot breed with one another, and while bobcats are part of the feline family, they are a species of lynx and also cannot breed with domestic cats. Still, when it comes to appearance and personality, the comparisons are understandable. Their thick fur, love of water, and lynx-like ears have fueled these stories for generations.
The raccoon theory may have also influenced the breed’s name. Before being called the Maine Coon, they were often simply referred to as “Maine Cats.” The addition of “Coon” may have stemmed from the word raccoon or from another popular theory involving Captain Charles Coon.
Ship Cats Theory
One of the strongest and most widely accepted theories is that Maine Coons descended from European ship cats. Long-haired cats were commonly kept aboard ships to control mice and rats that could damage cargo and equipment. Many sailors became deeply attached to their cats, carefully raising and preserving their bloodlines over generations.
Over two hundred years ago, Maine was a bustling harbor for sailors, shipbuilders, and seafaring families. Many settled along the coast and brought their treasured cats with them. It is believed these long-haired European cats, often linked to Angora breeds, eventually became what we now know as the Maine Coon.
Their excellent hunting abilities and natural mousing instincts add even more credibility to this theory.
Captain Charles Coon and His Cats
Among the ship cat stories, one tale stands out. In the 1800s, a sea captain named Charles Coon was said to travel along the New England coast with his long-haired cats aboard his ship. Whenever the ship docked, the cats would wander ashore and breed with local feral cats.
According to the story, when long-haired kittens began appearing throughout the coastal towns, people referred to them as “Coon’s Cats” because they resembled the captain’s beloved felines. Whether Captain Coon truly inspired the breed’s name or if it is simply a coincidence remains unknown.
Viking Cats
Another variation of the ship cat theory suggests Maine Coons may be descendants of Norwegian Forest Cats brought to North America aboard Viking ships long before other Europeans arrived. These cats would have served as companions and mousers during long voyages.
While this theory is highly intriguing and the similarities between the two breeds are undeniable, there is still no concrete evidence proving the connection.
Marie Antoinette and Her Angora Cats
Perhaps the most romantic and colorful theory involves Marie Antoinette herself. During the late 1700s, Turkish and Persian Angora cats were popular among French royalty. According to legend, when plans were made for Marie Antoinette to escape France during the Revolution, a ship bound for Maine was loaded with many of her personal belongings, including her beloved Angora cats.
Although Marie Antoinette never escaped and was ultimately executed, the ship reportedly sailed to Maine without her. Some believe her cats remained there and eventually contributed to the Maine Coon breed.
While parts of this story are rooted in real history, there is no documented proof that the cats were ever aboard the ship. Still, it remains one of the most enchanting legends tied to the Maine Coon’s mysterious origins.
