BASF took over Engelhard Corporation in June 2006. The simplest explanation of BASF's function in Eastport is that they take sardine scales and make a pearlescent pigment. Engelhard defined pearlescent as: "Having a pearly luster. Engelhard's pearlescent pigments are used to impart a pearl-like finish to automobiles, cosmetics, packaging and many other products." To receive specific information they can be contacted in Eastport at 207-853-2501.

Worldwide, BASF has a variety of functions in research and development to serve several industries. Especially interesting is the use of pearlescent pigment in the cosmetic and automotive industries.

As a child during the summers in southern Maine in the '50s, I had the special thrill of spending many late evenings on the water with my sardine fisherman uncle. A special treat was when a sardine carrier came on a moonlit night to pump sardines from the seines. The "button boat" would be along side the carrier to retrieve the scales that floated on the water as the sardine were pumped. The scales sparkled on the surface as though they were rare jewels. I was told at that time that the scales were used to make buttons.

Eastport, Maine: Easternmost City in the U.S.A.