Maine Coon. History: The Maine Coon is one of the oldest breeds in North America, namely the U.S. state of Maine. There are numerous legends around its origin. A widespread belief (although biologically impossible) is that it originated from a mating between semi-feral cats and raccoons. This myth, reinforced by the bushy tail and coloration, led to the adoption of the name 'Maine Coon'. Another popular legend has it that the Maine Coon came from the six pet cats that Marie Antoinette sent to Wiscasset, Maine, when she was planning to flee France during the French Revolution. Most breeders today believe the breed originated from a mating between pre-existing domestic shorthair cats and overseas longhair cats (perhaps introduced by New England sailors or brought to America by the Vikings). First mentioned in feline literature in 1861, Maine Coons were popular competitors at early cat shows in Boston and New York.