What do donut holes, the Stanley Steamer, a machine gun, the Bean boot and a can opener have in common? All were invented by the feverish minds and ingenuity of Mainers in the aftermath of the Civil War.

In this delightful, informative compendium of 53 of some the greatest inventors in Maine's history, beloved author and state historian Earl Smith discovers the whys, whats, and where-to-fores that prompted the creation of so many essentials and entertainments we now take for granted.