Volume 14, Issue #3 August 2011

Drawing from Life & Inspiration Two concurrent exhibitions at the Saco Museum this fall will celebrate the art of drawing, presented in conjunction with The Maine Drawing Project. Drawn from the River: Drawings by Artists of the Saco River Valley will use drawings from the Saco Museum’s per- manent collection to explore how drawing was part of the artistic process for 19th-century local artists like Gibeon Elden Bradbury and Charles Henry Granger. And Christy Bergland: Late Seasons of Great Pond will highlight a 16-piece series of drawings in a variety of media by Biddeford Pool artist Christy Berland. The exhibitions will be on view at the Saco Museum September 17 through November 13, 2011, with a preview reception scheduled for Wednesday, September 14 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The reception is FREE and open to the public.

Nineteenth-century art critic John Neal once observed that “It is a thankless calling, that of a landscape painter in our day,” noting that even the most talented and dedicated artists of his time had to struggle to make a living in this state. Saco River Valley artists Gibeon Elden Bradbury and Charles Henry Granger were no exceptions, as both of them worked tirelessly to establish a reputation and a market for their work. One of the ways in which they did this was to diversify their artistic output, producing large-scale, fully-realized drawings for exhibition and sale along- side their more expensive paintings. Like their paintings, their drawings demonstrate a range of subject matter—portraits, landscapes, city views, architectural studies, and more—demonstrating the varied tastes of their clientele, as well as the artists’ mastery over various drawing techniques and materials. Drawing was also a fundamental part of the painting process, for Bradbury in par- ABOVE: Christy Bergland, Late Summer, Western Quadrant, 2008-09 from the series ticular. Numerous sketches and studies made out-of-doors, including several sketchbooks given Late Seasons of Great Pond, chalk pastel on to the Saco Museum from the artist’s estate, will be featured, demonstrating that drawing was the backbone for his art and that of his contemporaries. paper, 24 x 18, photo courtesy of the artist. Contemporary artist Christy Bergland also uses a variety of drawing media to capture the land- scape of southern Maine. Her Late Seasons of Great Pond series explores the view outside her Biddeford Pool studio in a series of 16 drawings, depicting four quadrants of the view from each of four seasons: late summer, late fall, late winter, and late spring, over a full calendar year. The series “was inspired by my being profoundly moved by my experience as an acupuncture patient and coming to be with the many seasons and climates within me,” says Bergland. “This series sprang out of my recognition that external reality is the contextual container for internal experi- ence.” The 16 drawings are presented here together for the first time, giving a rare artist’s view into the change of seasons—with all the associated colors, textures, and shapes—in a single place over the course of a year. For more information about Christy Bergland, visit www.christyber- ABOVE: Gibeon Elden Bradbury (1833-1904) gland.com. Two Pears, circa 1870, gouache, ink, and graphite on tones paper, Saco Museum, gift of Presentation of the Saco Museum’s Maine Drawing Project exhibitions has been made possible Kitty Tonis. with the support of Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution. •

WHERE TO DRAW THE LINE: The Maine Drawing Project is a statewide visual arts initiative, developed by the Maine Curators’ Forum, that represents a unique collaboration among Maine’s arts organizations. As part of the Maine Drawing Project, museums and galleries across Maine will offer exhibitions in the 2011 calendar year that focus on drawing as a vehicle for creative, diverse forms of visual expression. Each 2011 issue of the Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter will feature the offerings of a MAM member organization involved in the statewide initiative. The Farnsworth Art Museum and the L.C. Bates Museum have been featured previously; this issue highlights the Saco Museum’s Maine Drawing Project exhibitions. For more information on The Maine Drawing Project, visit http://chitna.asap.um.maine.edu/mainedrawing/. GRANT SOURCES

MAINE ARTS COMMISSION (MAC) INSTITUTE OF MUSEUM & (207) 287-2724, www.mainearts.com — LIBRARY SERVICES Call for deadlines. General Operating Support — Call for deadlines. MAINE HUMANITIES COUNCIL (MHC) (202) 606-8539, www.imls.gov Maine Archives and Museums Conservation Project Support — (207) 773-5051, www.mainehumanities.org 110 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20506 MAM Newsletter Discretionary Grants (up to $500), reviewed on a rolling (202) 606-8539 — Deadline March 5. Volume 14 • Number 3 • August 2011 basis. Outreach Grants (up to $1,000), reviewed quarterly. IMLS Conservation Project Support — Oct. 15. NEH Major Grants (up to $6,000), reviewed twice a year. Exemplary Education Projects — Oct. 15. Maine Archives and Museums NEW ENGLAND FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS www.mainemuseums.org (617) 492-2914 — Call for deadlines. ODIORNE GRANT PROGRAM Supports projects combining archives and archaeology. [email protected] AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF MUSEUMS Maine State Archives, #84 State House Station, Augusta, (202) 289-9118, www.aam-us.org — Call for deadlines. ME 04333-0084 — deadline March 1. The Maine Archives and Museums Newslet- Museum Assessment Programs I: Operations ter is published on a quarterly basis as a ben- Museum Assessment Programs II: Collections NATIONAL HISTORIC PUBLICATIONS AND efit of membership in MAM, whose purpose Museum Assessment Programs III: Public Perception RECORDS ADMINISTRATION (NHPRC) is to develop and foster a network of citizens HERITAGE PRESERVATION Application guidelines and forms may be requested from NHPRC, National Archives & Records Administration, Conservation Assessment Program and institutions in Maine who identify, col- 700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Room 106, 1625 K St., NW, Suite 700, Washington, DC 20006 lect, interpret and/or provide access to mate- Washington, DC 20408-0001 Phone (202) 634-1422 • Fax (202) 634-1435 (202) 501-5610 rials relating to history and culture. www.heritagepreservation.org fax (202) 501-5601 Contributions to the MAM Newsletter may NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR e-mail [email protected] be submitted to MAM. Contact information THE HUMANITIES or web site at http:www.nara.gov/nhprc NEH Consultation Grants for Libraries, Museums, or provided above. Deadline is October 1. Special Projects — Sept. 16. Information and advice available from State Archives NEH Preservation & Access Research & Development To purchase copies of the MAM Newsletter, — (207) 287-5793. Grants — Oct. 1. please contact MAM at the above address or NEH Stabilization of Humanities Collections — Oct. 1. NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION (NSF) phone number. (202) 606-8400, www.neh.gov (202) 357-9498 www.nsf.gov Third Class postage paid at Bangor, Maine. NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS NEA Artistic Creativity & Preservation and Heritage & NATIONAL TRUST FOR Preservation — Aug. 18. HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICERS NEA Challenge America: Access to the Arts — Aug. 18 (617) 523-0885 President: Jay Adams (202) 682-5400, www.arts.gov www.nationaltrust.org Vice President: George Squibb Secretary: Patricia Burdick TABLE OF CONTENTS Treasurer: Patricia Henner Drawing From Life & Inspiration...... Cover BOARD MEMBERS MAM NEWS: Summary of Board Meeting, January 10, 2011...... 3 Jane Bianco Summary of Executive Committee Meeting, April 4, 2011 ...... 3 Leigh Hallett Summary of Special Meeting of Executive Committee, May 2, 2011..... 4 Candace Kanes Summary of Executive Committee Meeting, June 6, 2011...... 4 Sheri Leahan 2011 Maine Archives and Museums Annual Conference...... 5 Niles Parker Candy Russell EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS...... 5 Jessica Skwire Routhier DISPATCHES...... 13 Joanna Torow Visit the Past at Windham’s Village Green by Kay Soldier...... 15 Documenting the Present: A View Through a “Window on History”...... 16 NEWSLETTER STAFF Editor: Jessica Skwire Routhier OPPORTUNITIES...... 17 and Jane Bianco SEEN & HEARD...... 18 Typesetting & Design: Deborah J. McGee Disaster Response for Cultural Institutions: AIC-CERT by Jon Brandon...... 20 Printer: Bangor Letter Shop & Color Copy Center, Bangor NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER 2011 Only submissions received by the Editor by September 30, 2011, LEGAL SERVICES will be considered for publication. Contributed by James C. Pitney Jessica Skwire Routhier General Counsel Saco Museum, 371 Main St., Saco, ME 04072 Preti, Flaherty, Beleveau & Pachios 207-283-3861, ext. 114 www.sacomuseum.org

 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 MAM NEWS SUMMARY OF Legislation governing disposition of aban- BOARD MEETING doned property: Joanna explained that JR Phillips, director of the Maine State Museum, January 10, 2011 at Colby College Library has submitted a bill to the Maine State Attending: Jay Adams, Pat Burdick, Edna Legislature that would shorten period of cus- Comstock, Leigh Hallett, Patty Henner, tody for abandoned property from 25 to 3 Candace Kanes, Sheri Leahan, Candy Russell, years. MAM expressed support of the bill Jessica Skwire Routhier, George Squibb, and can help coordinate feedback from the Joanna Turow, and guests from local historical professional field and encourage participation societies. at hearings. Fundraising and investing in MAM’s future: GET EXTRA MHS Leadership Grant Project: Steve Bromage gave overview of project. This IMLS George summarized regional rep comments NEWSLETTERS grant expands outreach and supports train- from Saco meeting. Regional reps having ing for historical societies to digitize and to trouble conveying value of MAM member- Single extra copy: do online exhibits. It develops “21st century ship. Board should review long range plan $3.00 skills” and encourages collaboration between directives at each meeting to stay on track. groups. The Maine Community Heritage We have not pursued external funding - many (members free) Project helped MHS test collaborative process. of our initiatives are fundable. Ultimately we should invest in MAM’s future. New (IMLS) grant will broaden this model and To order an extra copy make it accessible to groups around the state. MAM’s role will be to employ the Regional SUMMARY OF EXECUTIVE or for price information Rep system to arrange workshops and to use COMMITTEE MEETING on bulk orders, email various communication tools to promote these April 4, 2011 via Free Conference Call [email protected] opportunities. Attending: Jay Adams, Jane Bianco, Pat MAM membership fees: Edna explained Burdick, Edna Comstock, Patty Henner, categories and fee structure, observing that Candace Kanes, George Squibb. we need to revisit the issue of corporate Called to order 10:14 a.m. membership. Need to reorganize Membership Committee since Amelia has resigned as chair. 2011 annual conference/meeting: Joanne and George will act as chair in the short term. Jay visited Newport Cultural Center. They Regional reps need to be involved in member- were in agreement that this would be a very Advertise in the ship recruitment and renewal. good site for both the MAM conference and the MMN workshop the day before. Agreement Maine MTA membership: Last year we paid basic that the EC would recommend Newport at the membership in order to sponsor map project forthcoming board meeting. (which did not have sufficient participation Archives & in the end). Maine Office of Tourism is better Paid advertising in newsletter: Jessica had venue for promoting MAM members. Motion: distributed suggested guidelines for managing Museums Terminate MTA membership. Second. Passed. paid advertising. Consensus: this idea is timely to explore. EC will recommend to board to Adoption of 2011 budget: Budget presented adopt this as policy. Newsletter without $145 MTA fee. Motion to adopt. Second. Passed. Maine Maritime Museum: Jay has talked with Amy Lent. There is a bill in the current Do you have a great product Replacement for Amelia Chamberlain: legislative session to reduce property taxes or service that you want Amelia has resigned. President can fill via for nonprofits. Bill killed in committee. This appointment for duration of term. Send names is an example of the type of advocacy MAM Maine’s museums and to Jay in next two weeks. Think about gaps to can provide. libraries to know about? be filled on board. MAM’s stand on removal of labor mural: Consider a quarter-page ad in our Filling Executive Committee at-large posi- Jessica has pointed out that the Maine Curators’ quarterly newsletter, which is direct- tion: Motion to accept Candace Kanes on EC. Forum has taken a stand, and the cover story mailed to Maine’s community of collecting Second. Passed. for the upcoming newsletter alludes to this organizations and published on-line. MAM web site assessment: Pat will send her controversy. EC supports cover story but informal assessment to all board members. declines to make statement on MAM’s behalf. Ads are $100 per issue for non-members There was a consensus that MAM should have We cannot accurately reflect members and the of MAM; $25 for members. a Facebook account to build relationships; field unless we can poll opinions. Jessica will set up account and link to MAM Business Manager position: Edna has present- For complete specifications, please contact site. Note: Soon after the 10 January meet- ed MAM with letter of resignation, explaining Jessica Skwire Routhier ing, Jessica emailed the board with cost and that her schedule cannot accommodate MAM’s Newsletter Editor and Chair of details about Constant Contact, a group e-mail increasing demands. Jay thanked Edna for giv- MAM’s Communications Committee service. An e-vote was taken, with consensus ing us sufficient notice; she will stay with [email protected] being that MAM should begin to use Constant MAM through the 11 July board meeting. (207) 283-3861, ext. 114 Contact as a communications venue. —continued on page 4

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter  Maine Archives & Museums 2011 Board of Directors President BOARD MEMBERS Jay Adams (2008) Jane Bianco (2010) Farnsworth Art Museum Director Emeritus 16 Museum Street, Rockland, ME 04841 Old Fort Western 207-596-6457 x104, [email protected] 207-441-7357 (cell) Leigh Hallett (2011) Newport Cultural Center [email protected] 24 Shaw Street, Newport, ME 04953 VICE PRESIDENT 207-369-2193, [email protected] George Squibb (2007) Candace Kanes (2011) Maine Historical Society Belfast Historical Society and Museum 489 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101 42 Grove Street 207-774-1822, [email protected] Belfast, ME 04915 Sheri Leahan (2011) Independent Museum Professional 207-338-3340 35 Cummings Hill Road, Temple, ME 04984 [email protected] 207-779-4445, [email protected] SECRETARY Niles Parker (2010) Maine Discovery Museum Patricia Burdick (2007) 74 Main Street, Bangor, ME 04401 Colby College Special Collections 207-762-7200 5150 Mayflower Hill [email protected] Waterville, ME 04901 Candy Russell (2008) Moosehead Historical Museum 207-859-5151 PO Box 1116, Greenville, ME 04441 Fax: 207-859-5105 207-695-2909, [email protected] [email protected] Jessica Skwire Routhier (2009) Saco Museum TREASURER 371 Main Street, Saco, ME 04072 Patricia Henner (2009) 207-283-3861 x114, [email protected] Page Farm and Home Museum Joanna Torow (2007) Maine State Museum University of Maine 83 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0083 Orono, ME 04469-5787 207-287-2301, [email protected] 207-581-4100 (In parentheses after each name is the year the director began serving his/her term. A director can serve up to [email protected] three successive two-year terms.)

MAM News, continued from page 3 observed that expanded duties would translate Kanes, Jane Bianco, George Squibb, Edna into expanded hours, thus a greater expense Comstock SUMMARY OF for MAM. MAM has enough in the bank to Jay Adams opened the meeting by noting the fund the expanded position for some period SPECIAL MEETING OF purpose of this session, which was to review of time, with the understanding that additional EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE the applications for the position of Business funding can be sought out. It was determined Manager and make a decision about who May 2, 2011 at Farnsworth Art Museum that MAM would only employ independent would be interviewed. The group decided to contract staff and not hire direct staff. Jessica Present: George Squibb, Jessica Skwire interview the two top candidates. Jay agreed to volunteered to draft a RFP for board review, in Routhier, Candace Kanes, and Jay Adams; assemble an interview committee which would time for advertising via e-mail, Facebook, list- directors Candy Russell, Leigh Hallett, and meet in Augusta within the next two weeks. Edna Comstock. Present via conference call: servs (especially to individual candidates), and Jane Bianco, Sheri Leahan and Niles Parker. by mail to management support and consulting There was discussion of how many hours to firms. Applications are due no later than June request because of the variation in the propos- The MAM Executive Committee, along with 1. All applications must be submitted electron- als. The group agreed to start at 30 hours and other members of the board of Directors, met ically to make distribution to board members adjust from there as necessary. in special session to discuss and decide pos- easy. All applications will be sent initially to Jay thanked the group for their counsel and sible changes to the MAM contract business Jay. The Executive Committee will serve as manager’s job description, identify the ele- said he would contact the other candidates as the search and interview body. Assuming all appropriate. ments of a RFP designed to attract individual goes well, a candidate will be recommended to and firm-based contract candidates to replace the board for action at the July board meeting. Meeting adjourned at 10:35am Edna Comstock, determine the process for Please see November issue of vetting candidates, and establish a timetable in SUMMARY OF EXECUTIVE an effort to ensure a replacement is in place a MAM Newsletter for minutes from the close as possible to Edna’s departure in July. COMMITTEE MEETING April 11 and July 11 meetings of the June 6, 2011 full board and subsequent Thanks to Edna and using the job description via Free Conference Call Executive Committee meetings. currently in place, the committee reviewed and made changes to the job description. It was Attending: Jay Adams, Patty Henner, Candace –continued on page 5

 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

Working the Shaker Acre This strongbox belonged Exhibition at the to Father Sebastien Rale RIGHT AND Alfred Shaker Museum of Norridgewock. Seized BELOW: Ongoing by Colonel Thomas West- Museums of Old Friends of the Alfred Shaker Museum opened brook in the raid of York Registrar the 2011 season with this new exhibit featur- January 1722, the box contained Father Rale’s and Acting ing the various farming endeavors in which the French-Wabanaki dictionary, the product of Curator Cindi Alfred Shakers participated, such as cutting ice nearly 30 years of work. Courtesy of Maine Young-Gomes to sell to Portland and Boston markets; raising Historical Society. demonstrates cucumbers to sell to a Portland packing house archaeological that sold them as Shaker pickles; making but- Center Gallery in Remick Barn, 3 Lindsay hands-on ter; milking, feeding and caring for a large Road. The exhibit treats the first century of activities in the herd of cows. The Alfred Shaker Museum will York’s development as an English settlement: new exhibit. host several workshops this season includ- trade, religion, war and everyday life. The ing Beginner Tatting with Maddie Kelley on display features over 200 objects including August 27 and Beginner Knitting with Maddie rare surviving weapons, furnishings, and trade Kelley on September 17. For more informa- items. Museum Registrar and Acting cura- tion concerning the workshops call 490-5709 tor Cindi Young-Gomes has created hands-on or email [email protected] Shaker exhibits exploring archaeology and early life Museum, 118 Shaker Hill Road in Alfred is in York. Kids will be invited to unearth buried open each Wednesday and Saturday from 1 to artifacts like those left behind by the town’s 4 p.m. through mid October. earliest settlers. FMI:(207) 363-4974 / www. “The country heer is plentiful”: oldyork.org. Trade, Religion and Warfare in York and Southern Maine Buckle from the Richard Exhibition at Hitchcock site. This site is Museums of Old York one of the earliest English Ongoing homesteads excavated in Horse-Drawn Summer Delivery Vehicles Marking the beginning of its 112th season, the New England, making it an important “type Exhibition at Skyline Farm and Museums of Old York is pleased to announce site,” telling us what to expect to find in the re- Carriage Museum, Yarmouth the opening of a new exhibit at its Visitor gion. Courtesy of Dyer Library/Saco Museum. Through August 21 The newest exhibit at Skyline Farm is receiving rave reviews and record attendance. Vehicles MAM News, continued from page 4 on loan to Skyline Farm Carriage Museum for this exhibit include a West Falmouth, Maine, Milk Wagon from the Falmouth Historical Save the Date! Society and a common New England pole sided Hay Wagon from Kennebec Morgan 2011 Maine Archives and Museums Horse Farm. Be sure not to miss our other exhibits: the Hitching Post, Sanford Mills/ Annual Conference Chase Lap Robe, and Kimball Bros. Carriage “Partnerships & Best Practices” Company history exhibits. FMI: www.skyline farm.org / (207) 239-5782. Newport Cultural Center • Friday, October 28, 2011 “Glorious Ridges and Princely Peaks”: The MAM annual conference is a great way to connect with your colleagues, gain some new Artistic Visions of the White Mountains skills and knowledge, and share your successes. This year’s theme focuses on collaborations— Exhibition at the one session will be an outgrowth of the Maine Drawing Project, for example (see p. 1)—and Bethel Historical Society working together to find the place where our resources and ambitions meet up with industry stan- Through August 31 dards. We’re delighted this year to hold the conference at the Newport Cultural Center’s brand- Held in conjunction with the Society’s exhibi- new facility, just south of Bangor. Watch this fall for mailings, e-mails, and Facebook updates tion on the White Mountain Club of Portland, including full conference details and information on how to register. Questions? Contact MAM this display presents 19th- and 20th-centu- Program Committee Chair Joanna Torow at [email protected] or 207-287-6608. ry paintings of the highlands of northern New Hampshire and western Maine. With its 2011 Maine Archives and Museums Annual Conference outstanding combination of superb scenery, Call for Proposals important historical associations, and easy The theme of the October 28 MAM Conference in Newport—“Partnerships & Best Practices”— accessibility to millions of people in the north- was selected based on feedback from MAM members. Now we are asking members and others in eastern United States and Atlantic Canada, the the field to help make the Annual Conference the type of professional development event Maine White Mountain region has long occupied an collecting institutions need. We welcome you to submit a session proposal and tell us what you important place in our collective imaginations. would like to discuss, how you would like to share your knowledge and expertise, what unique Mason House exhibit hall; Tues. – Sun. 1:00 programs you would like to spotlight, or which success stories you would like to tell. Proposals - 4:00 PM thereafter. Bethel Historical Society, must be submitted electronically to Joanna Torow at [email protected]. For more infor- 10-14 Broad St., P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME mation and guidelines for proposals, contact Joanna at (207) 287-6608 or joanna.torow@maine. 04217; 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910; www. gov. • bethelhistorical.org. —continued on page 6

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter  EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

—continued from page 5 Saturdays from 10am to 2pm through October Fiber Arts Exhibit and Workshop: and by appointment. FMI: www.stetsonmaine. A Quilting Bee net / 296-2601. Workshop at Washburn Norlands Living History Center Diggin’ History— Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Piecing Together Pettengill Farm’s Past August 5, 6, and 7, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Exhibition at Bring your thimble and lend a hand (or watch) Freeport Historical Society on any of the dates! Washburn Norlands Harrington House Living History Center, 290 Norlands Road, Ongoing and through October 7 Livermore, ME 04253. FMI: (207) 897 4366 / Interactive activities for children and fami- www.norlands.org. lies at Harrington House will include a “dig” sandbox with fake artifacts to unearth, fun Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions exercises on interpreting objects, mystery arti- Event at Hamilton House, facts that invite children and adults to identify South Berwick the function, and copies of actual documents Friday, August 5, 6:00-7:30 p.m. to read. Special children’s archaeology pro- Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7, grams are scheduled throughout the summer. 2-3:30 p.m. Concluding the program in early September The Herrmann family, breeders and trainers at Harrington House is a panel discussion on of the famed Lipizzan horse for over 300 World War I soldiers from 18th- and 19th-century coastal farmsteads, his- years, demonstrate the highest levels of horse- Hinckley and Fairfield. toric archaeology, prehistoric archaeology and manship in three shows. The stallions of the interpretation where we will contextualize the Herrmann line are among the last horses capa- Central Maine Serves Pettengill findings and also share insights on ble of executing the “Airs Above the Ground” Local Military History the apparent absence of prehistoric sites in this maneuvers. These dramatic leaps and plunges Exhibitions at area. Harrington House is located at 45 Main were developed as aggressive battle maneu- Central Maine Museums Street, Freeport. FMI: www.freeporthistorical vers in the sixteenth century, and are now Summer and Fall 2011 society.org 207-865-3170. among the most beautiful displays of equine To commemorate the sesquicentennial of the grace and strength. Please bring your own History Barn Open Houses Civil War, the Central Kennebec Heritage seating. Snacks and souvenirs available.Ticket Events at the New Gloucester Council has organized a series of exhibits under prices $8- $15. CASH ONLY ticket sales at Historical Society the banner Central Maine Serves. The member the gate the day of the show. Hamilton House First Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. to noon organizations will each offer displays about is located at 40 Vaughan’s Lane, S. Berwick, The New Gloucester Historical Society con- local people who have served in war time, ME. FMI and to purchase advance tickets: tinues to holds its monthly History Barn Open from the colonial period to the modern era. The www.historicnewengland.org/lipizzans. participating institutions include: Taconnett Houses from 9 AM to 12 Noon on the first Falls Genealogy Library in Winslow, Fairfield Saturday of the month. The August Open House History House, Macartney House Museum in will feature historic photos of the Sabbathday Oakland, L. C. Bates Museum at Good Will- Lake Shaker Village (to commemorate the Hinckley, Norridgewock Historical Society, 237th anniversary of the Shaker arrival in Margaret Chase Smith Library in Skowhegan, America) and the September Open House will Skowhegan History House, and Old Canada feature an exhibit on schools. The History Barn Road Museum & Research Center in Bingham. is located behind the New Gloucester Town Each organization has used its unique collec- Hall on Route 231. FMI: lkgard@securespeed. tions to create an exhibit and related programs net or [email protected]. that examine how its town’s citizens served in Mollie Tucker’s Kitchen A recent performance by the Herrmann’s Royal or assisted military efforts. Supported by the Tour at Lipizzan Stallions. Maine Humanities Council, the project will Castle Tucker, Wiscasset continue into fall. FMI about Central Maine Thursday, August 4 and Annual Open House and Exhibit Day Serves, contact the L.C. Bates Museum at 207- Thursday, September 1, 10 a.m. Jefferson Historical Society 238-4250 or [email protected]. Come get an insider’s look at the way a nine- Saturday, August 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Antique Radios teenth century family kitchen functioned. From The Old Jefferson Town House, built in Exhibition at 1858 when she moved in as a young bride of 1869, will be open for tours and exhibits. The Stetson Historical Society 16 until her death in 1922, Mollie Tucker pre- main floor where generations of Jefferson Through October pared food in the kitchen at Castle Tucker for citizens discussed and settled town business The Stetson Historical Society’s newest dis- her family of eight, visiting friends and family, has just undergone a complete restoration play is of antique battery operated radios. The and in the summer season, paying guests. How with new electrical wiring and lighting; walls collection includes Silvertone radios, sold by did she do it? What did they eat? Did she have and ceilings replastered and painted; trim and Sears Roebuck & Co., a Crosley Model XV, any help? Hear Mollie’s story in the actual benches freshly painted; and a new handi- and a FADA “Seven,” probably the first radio rooms where she worked. Admission is $10 capped accessible bathroom with storage on brought to Stetson. The collection is being for Historic New England members, $15 for part of the footprint of the old brick vault. researched and anyone with an interest in early nonmembers. Pre-registration for ticket pur- Displays will feature items and documents radios is welcome to help provide information. chase is required. Space is limited. The tour from the JHS collection, with a focus on The Stetson Historical Society is located at 24 begins at 10:00 a.m. at Castle Tucker, 2 Lee Jefferson’s involvement with the Civil War Stetson Road, Stetson. The museum is open Street, Wiscasset. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www. HistoricNewEngland.org. —continued on page 7

 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

—continued from page 6 sausages, and other tidbits. The event is free to members, with new memberships accepted as well as school-related items since the 100- at the door ($10 annual). The brand new annex year-old Jefferson Village School is being and real, honest-to-goodness flush toilet will replaced this year by a new elementary school. be celebrated at that time. Rte. 17 in Readfield Jefferson memorabilia and local history books Depot (that’s 759 Main St., Readfield 04355 also will be available for sale. The just- for those with GPS). FMI: 685-4662. published Arcadia pictorial history book on Damariscotta Lake (see Dispatches, p. 13) will Bethel Histocial Society be available. The Old Jefferson Town House Heritage Days is located at the intersection of Route 126 and August 12 and 13 213, 7 Gardiner Road. FMI: 549-5258. Heritage Days kick off on Friday, August 12 at 7:30 p.m. with the Hall Memorial Lecture, “The History of Pemaquid’s Prominence Collections of Historic New England. honoring the 150th anniversary of the begin- in the 17th Century” Denenberg tells the uniquely American story ning of the Civil War. Thomas Desjardin, Living History event, of the former minister who played a sig- Historian, Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands, Colonial Pemaquid nificant role in shaping the twentieth-cen- will present a talk entitled “Reluctant Warriors: Saturday, August 6, 1-3 p.m. tury consumer’s ideas about our colonial and Mainers React to the Outbreak of the Civil Fish, fur and forest products established Revolutionary era past. From his romanti- War.” The lecture will take place at the Mason Pemaquid as a unique and prominent seaside cally choreographed photographs, his histor- House exhibit hall and is free and open to the trading post during the 17th century. In its ic house museums, and his line of colonial public. Heritage Days continue on Saturday, early years, the settlement at Pemaquid grew reproduction furniture, the legacy of Wallace August 13 with events celebrating the exhibi- to perhaps 40 structures and 200 or more Nutting permeates mainstream American tion The White Mountain Club of Portland: inhabitants who eventually needed protec- design and historical stereotypes to this day. Exploration and Adventure in the ‘Crystal tion from French and Indian attacks. The This lecture series is sponsored by the Maine Hills’ 1873-1884: a lecture by Randall H. area remains a prodigious source of arti- Humanities Council. The lecture will be held Bennett, White Mountain author, historian and facts from all over the world. The Friends at 3 p.m. in the Nickels-Sortwell House Barn, BHS Executive Director at 1 p.m. (fee); an of Colonial Pemaquid invites visitors and 121 Main Street, (entrance on Federal Street) exhibition opening reception from 2 to 5 p.m. friends to come and hear about the exciting Wiscasset. Admission is free for Historic New (free); and a special guided house tour of the history of Pemaquid on Saturday, August 6. England members (a Members’ Week spe- circa 1820s Hastings Homestead ($25/person). Historical interpreters George Robbins and cial), $10 for nonmembers. Pre-registration Tickets for the house tour will be available Gus Konitsky will relay interesting stories and is recommended. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www. from the Society’s Museum Shop the day of facts from 1 to 3 PM. Rain date is Sunday, HistoricNewEngland.org. the tour or by sending a check to the Society at August 7. Visitors are encouraged to return to PO Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217. Colonial Pemaquid on Monday, August 8 at 7:30 PM when University of Maine professor, Bethel Historical Society, 10-14 Broad St., Dr. Liam Riordan will lecture on “Ambivalent P.O. Box 12, Bethel, Maine 04217. FMI: 207- Allegiances in Revolutionary Maine,” and on 824-2908 / 800-824-2910; www.bethelhistori Saturday, August 15 when Kai Nalenz will cal.org. lecture on “Veterans’ Gravestones: History and Annual Open House Restoration.” Colonial Pemaquid is located Event at off Route 130, approximately 12 miles south Hiram Historical Society of Route 1 and 3 miles north of the Pemaquid August 13, 2-5 p.m. Point Lighthouse. FMI: www.FriendsofColoni Jo Radner, noted adult storyteller, will tell alPemaquid.org / 677-2423. the story of the devastating 1947 wildfires in Collections of Historic New England. Fryeburg/Brownfield/Hiram. We will show videos of recollections of Hiram residents and Kid’s Day – Happy Birthday, Stanley! hear stories from the audience. Photographic Seal Cove Auto Museum exhibit. Donations accepted. Hiram Historical Wednesday, August 10, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Society is located at 20 Historical Ridge, Sing happy 100th birthday to the Museum’s Hiram, ME 04041 - off Route 117 (Main Street 1911 Stanley Toy Tonneau and enjoy cake, in Hiram Village). FMI: Sally Williams, 625- croquet on the lawn, and Model T toy car 4762 or [email protected]. races. All kids get a museum grab bag with balloon, stickers, and more. Enjoy a free bag An Evening with “The Marden’s Lady” of popcorn from our popcorn wagon. Silent Event at the Fort William Henry presides still at Colonial movies throughout day. Kids 12 and under are Readfield Historical Society Pemaquid State Historical Site. free. FMI: 207.244.9242 / admin@sealcoveau- August 14, 7 p.m. tomuseum.org. The Readfield Historical Society will host a benefit by The Marden’s Lady on August Wallace Nutting and the Wine and Cheese Summer Social 14th at 7:00 PM. Tickets are on sale at Invention of Old America Event at the The Lighthouse Market in Manchester, Apple Lecture at Readfield Historical Society Valley Books in Winthrop, and Marie’s Whole Nickels-Sortwell House, August 12, 5-7 p.m. Foods in Readfield. They are $10 in advance Wiscasset A variety of wines and non-alcoholic bever- and $12 at the door the night of the perfor- Sunday, August 7, 3 p.m. ages will be offered, along with cheeses, Portland Museum of Art Chief Curator Thomas —continued on page 8

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter  EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

—continued from page 7 The Way They Were Tour in Newfield” at the Newfield Historical Society Special Tour at Building at 3 p.m. The Sunday event is free mance at the Union Meeting House on the Hamilton House, South Berwick and refreshments will be served. FMI: 207- Church Road in Readfield. FMI: 685-4662. Saturday, August 20, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. 793-2784 / www.willowbrookmuseum.org. Saturday, September 24, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. Shipboard Songs and Tales Jefferson Day Go behind-the-scenes to learn about the daily Performance at Community Event, routines of domestics, groundskeepers, and Yarmouth Historical Society Town of Jefferson others who worked for families like the Tysons Monday, August 15, 7 p.m. Saturday, August 20, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. of Hamilton House early in the 20th century. Castlebay, a maritime and Celtic music-and- An all-day event featuring early morning road See the fourth-floor attic space where servants song duo from Round Pond, Maine, will races, barbecue, silent auction, music, activi- lived, and enjoy the stunning view of the river perform Monday, August 15, at 7 p.m. at ties, and vendors and organizations offering from the rooftop skylight. Hamilton House the Cousins Island Community House, 422 information, food, and items for sale on the is located at 40 Vaughan’s Lane, S. Berwick, Cousins Street, Yarmouth. Tickets are $9 for Village Green, between the Jefferson Town ME. Registration required: $8 for Historic members and $10 for non-members, and can Office and the school. The Jefferson Historical New England members, $12 nonmembers. be purchased in advance at the Yarmouth Society will have its home-made fudge and Please call 207-384-2454 or visit www.his Historical Society, online, or at the door. Choose-Your-Own Cookie Sale along with toricnewengland.org to register. Concert-goers are encouraged to bring a chair Jefferson memorabilia and local history books, or blanket to enjoy this outdoor musical per- Electric Car Day – The SUNN EV Project including the newly published Arcadia picto- formance. Co-sponsored by the Cousins and Seal Cove Auto Museum rial history book, Damariscotta Lake (see Littlejohn Islands Improvement Association. Saturday, August 20, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Dispatches, p. 13). FMI: 549-5258. FMI: 846-6259 / info@yarmouthmehistory. See the SUNN EV built by College of the “Native American-English Relationships org. Atlantic students and hear talks on electric cars in the 17th Century” then and now. See an original Chevy Volt by Lecture by Jay Robbins Living History Event, Morrison Chevrolet and the Museum’s 1908 Boothbay Region Colonial Pemaquid Rauch & Lange Electric and 1913 Kimball Historical Society Saturday and Sunday, August 20 and 21, Electric. Screenings of the movie Who Killed Thursday, August 18, 4 p.m. 1-4 p.m. the Electric Car?at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and On August 18 at 4 p.m. Early contact between Native Americans and 2:30 p.m. Regular museum admission applies. Jay Robbins will speak at European settlers in the Midcoast area may FMI: (207) 244-9242 / admin@sealcoveauto- Boothbay Region Historical have been for the purpose of trade, but that museum.org. Society. He will discuss his contact often disintegrated into conflict. Both Jay Robbins project to uncover the indus- ends of that spectrum will be represented trial history of Edgecomb, when living history interpreter Ken Hamilton including examination of its mill sites, quar- portrays a 17th-century Indian encamped at ries, brickyards, icehouses and canning fac- Colonial Pemaquid for the purpose of trade tories. The presentation is free to the public, on Saturday, August 20 and Sunday, August but seat reservations are suggested. It will be 21. From 1 to 4 p.m. each day he will pro- held at Boothbay Region Historical Society at vide a Native American perspective to that 72 Oak Street in Boothbay Harbor. FMI: 633- uneasy alliance with the often “treacherous” 0820 / www.boothbayhistorical.org. English. Sponsored by the Friends of Colonial Pemaquid, admission to this event is free but Twilight Tours donations are welcome.Visitors are encouraged at the to return to the Contented Sole Restaurant adja- Nickels-Sortwell House Sack race at Willowbrook’s Old Home Day cent to the site museum on Monday, August Thursday August 18, event. 22, at 7:30 p.m. when historical archaeologist tours begin at 5 and 6 p.m. Dr. Neill DePaoli will lecture on “The Dutch Enjoy a special early evening tour of this Newfield Old Home Days beautiful mansion. Built in 1807 for Captain Newfield Historical Society, William Nickels, this high Federal style house Limerick Newfield Lions is a testament to Wiscasset’s heyday as a and Willowbrook seaport. Purchased by the Sortwell family in Saturday, August 20 and Sunday, August 21 1899, the house was lovingly restored and On BOTH Saturday & Sunday, see a decorated in the Colonial Revival style. See Revolutionary War Encampment on the rooms not usually open to the public, offering Newfield Historical Society Grounds (located a deeper picture of how the Sortwell family next to Willowbrook), presented by the 2nd and their servants lived in the house in the Regiment of York County. On Saturday, August summer. Nickels-Sortwell House is at 121 20, enjoy free admission to Willowbrook! Main Street. Admission is $10 for Historic Enjoy historic craft and trade demonstra- New England members, $15 nonmembers. tions, relay races and contests, cake walk, Advance registration for ticket purchase is vendors, music and entertainment, carousel required. Please specify your preference for rides and more! Take part in blueberry pie con- Colonial Pemaquid will host living history in- either the 5:00 or 6:00 tour. FMI: 207-882- tests—either enter your best recipe OR race to terpreter Ken Hamilton on August 20 and 21, 7169 / www.HistoricNewEngland.org. see who can eat their slice of pie the fastest! as he portrays a 17th-century Woodland Indian Finally, on Sunday, August 21, Ruth Bridges participating in trade with the English settlers Ayers will present “Four Murdered One June in the 17th century. —continued on page 9

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—continued from page 8 miles north of the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. to the public. Three Apple Saturdays will be FMI: www.FriendsofColonialPemaquid.org / held at the Village on Sept. 24. Oct. 1 and 8 in Maine?! Pemaquid’s New York Connection 677-2423. with free cider pressing each of the Saturdays Revisited.” Colonial Pemaquid is located off as well as a special event per Saturday- Walking Tour of Route 130, approximately 12 miles south of apple pie sale, “Apple Art,” and cider and Wiscasset Village Route 1 and 3 miles north of the Pemaquid donut sale respectively. The Sabbathday Lake Friday, August 26, 2 p.m. Point Lighthouse. FMI: www.FriendsofColon Shaker Village is located off Route 26 in New Earle Shettleworth, director of the Maine ialPemaquid.org / 677-2423. Gloucester. FMI: (207) 926-4597 / www. Historic Preservation Commission and Maine shaker.lib.me.us. Lecture sponsored by State Historian, leads a very special walk- Belgrade Historical Society ing tour to benefit Historic New England’s Everything Old is New Again: August 24, 7 p.m. Preservation Maintenance Fund. Earle shares Revivals and Reproductions of Join us as the historian of Lakeside Advent his architectural expertise while Dan Stevens, Historic Furnishing Textiles Christian Campground in North Belgrade tells Nickels-Sortwell House tour guide, tells tales Lecture at the history of their summer enclave. Camp of heroes, rogues and damsels in distress on Nickels-Sortwell House, meetings were held in tents near Pittsfield as a walk from Castle Tucker to the Nickels- Wiscasset early as 1842, but permanent structures were Sortwell House. The walk will be followed by Sunday, August 28, 3 p.m. not raised until 1880, when the railroad hauled refreshments in the Nickels-Sortwell House Historic New England Associate Curator the lumber to some farmland on the banks of solarium. Admission is $25 for Historic New Laura Johnson discusses how textiles were Messalonskee Lake. The Campground drew England members, $30 nonmembers. Space designed, produced and later reproduced for hundreds to its services; by steam launch, by is very limited. Pre-registration for ticket pur- new generations wanting an authentic his- rail, by buggy, and now by car. The program chase is required. The price includes house toric look for their homes. This lecture series is will be given at the Campground off Route 11. tours of both Castle Tucker and the Nickels- sponsored by the Maine Humanities Council. FMI: (207) 465-3077. Sortwell House which can be taken any time. The lecture will be held at 3:00 p.m. in The walking tour leaves from Castle Tucker the Nickels-Sortwell House Barn, 121 Main at 2:00 p.m. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www. Street, (entrance on Federal Street) Wiscasset. HistoricNewEngland.org. Admission is $5 for Historic New England members and $10 for nonmembers. Pre-regis- Women in Everyday Life 1789-1890 tration is recommended. FMI: 207-882-7169 / Tours at www.HistoricNewEngland.org. Marrett House, Standish Saturday, August 27 and Saturday, Steam Car Day September 10, tours run hourly 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Locomobile, Stanley & White Historian Elaine Bradbury leads special tours Seal Cove Auto Museum focusing on the lives of upper class rural Maine Sunday, September 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. women, like the three generations of women Watch as we fire up a Stanley Steamer, and who lived at the Marrett House between 1790 take a ride in our 1914 Stanley Mountain and 1890. Learn how women were educated, Wagon, ($5.00 per person). Hear Susan Davis, Dixey Bull returns to Colonial Pemaquid! how they fed their families and took care of founder of the Stanley Museum in Kingfield, their homes, and how they entertained them- speak about the Museum’s steam cars, and “Interactions with 17th-Century Pirates”: selves in their leisure time. Occupied by the see the museum’s steam car collection ranging Kid Pirates Wanted for Dixey Bull’s Crew Marrett family for more than 150 years, the from a 1900 Locomobile, a 1910 White, and Event at Colonial Pemaquid house showcases the treasured possessions Stanley Steamers from 1903 to 1914 includ- August 27, two performances at 1 and 3 p.m. of three generations as they chose to display ing the most valuable Stanley in existence, Clear the decks for action! Historical interpret- them. The parlor is preserved exactly as it was an original, un-restored, 1908 Model K Semi- ers Greg Latimer and Jim Nelson will regale decorated for a family wedding in 1847. These Racer. We’ll be showing the movie Jay Leno: visitors with stories of pirates and interactive tours will be given on the hour from 11:00 Certified Car Nut throughout the day: see Jay’s activities. Learn how real piracy affected the a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Admission is free for Historic 1909 Stanley Steamer, 1925 Doble steam car settlers at Pemaquid. Children are invited to New England members, $5 nonmembers. Pre- and other classics. Regular museum admission join Dixey Bull’s pirate crew. New recruits registration is recommended. Marrett House applies. FMI: 207.244.9242 / admin@sealcove will participate in piratical activities with crew is located at 40 Ossippee Trail East (Route automuseum.org mates Sassy Sally and Jiggs. Apprentices will 25), Standish. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www. “The Age of Innocence” and the learn about pirate lore, practice how to talk HistoricNewEngland.org. like a pirate, and make their own pirate hat Tuckers of Wiscasset, Maine and necklace. Following a dramatic appear- Third Annual Maine Native American Special Tour at ance, Dixey Bull, portrayed by Jim Nelson, Summer Market and Demonstration Castle Tucker, Wiscasset will regale the crew with tales of his exploits Event at Sabbathday Lake Thursday, September 8 and before leading his novice pirates on a treasure Shaker Village, Thursday, October 13, 10 a.m. hunt. The Friends of Colonial Pemaquid is New Gloucester In the world of Edith Wharton’s classic novel, sponsoring the event. Visitors are encouraged Saturday, August 27, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. public perception was paramount if you were to return to Colonial Pemaquid on Sunday, Fifteen Maine Native American artists repre- to be considered a member of polite society. September 4 for the end of the season concert senting three Maine tribes will hold demon- How do the wealthy and socially prominent of Celtic music by the popular Castlebay. strations of many aspects of Native American Tuckers of Wiscasset, Maine compare to the There will be two performances at 1 and 3 p.m. life and culture at Sabbathday Lake Shaker characters of Victorian New York depicted Colonial Pemaquid is located off Route 130, Village. Traditional and contemporary crafts in The Age of Innocence? What are the con- will be available for purchase. Free and open approximately 12 miles south of Route 1 and 3 —continued on page 10

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—continued from page 9 Jonathan Hamilton’s Berwick Historic House Tour Landscape tour at Event at nections between these stories? Come to a Hamilton House, Yarmouth Historical Society special tour and find out. The tour begins South Berwick Saturday, September 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 10:00 a.m. at Castle Tucker. Admission Saturday, September 17, The Yarmouth Historical Society’s third is $10 for Historic New England members, 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Annual Historic House Tour will take place $15 nonmembers Pre-registration for ticket Historic archaeologist Dr. Neill De Paoli leads on Saturday, September 17, from 10 a.m. to purchase is required. FMI: 207-882-7169 / a lively tour of the grounds with a focus on the 3 p.m. Take a self-guided journey through www.HistoricNewEngland.org. landscape as it was in Hamilton’s day. Using unique homes from the lower village to the Live-In History Experience research based on historic maps, archaeologi- water. Visit one site, or see them all—the Program at cal evidence, and similar sites in the region, De choice is yours! Tickets are on sale now at the Washburn Norlands Paoli describes an eighteenth-century working Yarmouth Historical Society, 215 Main Street, Living History Center landscape that is very different from the tran- Yarmouth. Tickets are $20.00 in advance or Saturday and Sunday quil gardens and woods we see today. Please $25.00 at the door. FMI: 846-6259 / info@ September 10 & 11 note, the tour involves prolonged standing and yarmouthmehistory.org. walking on uneven ground. Hamilton House 24 hours working and learning on the farm; Second Annual Autumn Pie and Arts is located at 40 Vaughan’s Lane, S. Berwick, overnight in an authentic farmer’s cot- Event at Washburn Norlands ME. $8 for Historic New England members, tage. Limited space available. Reservations Living History Center $12 nonmembers. Reservations recommended. required. Washburn Norlands Living History September 17, Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Please call 207-384-2454 or visit www.his- Center, 290 Norlands Road, Livermore, ME Live musical performances on the lawn, and toricnewengland.org to reserve your spot. 04253. FMI: (207) 897 4366 / www.norlands. yummy pies for sale! 290 Norlands Road, org. Book, Bake and Yard Sale Livermore, ME 04253. FMI: (207) 897 4366 / Hiram Historical Society Event at www.norlands.org. Meeting and Lecture Hampden Historical Society September 10 Saturday, September 17 starting at 8 a.m. meeting at 2 p.m., program 2:30 Come stock up on books for your winter read- Nancy Greenleaf, weaver, will explore the ing enjoyment. Select some homemade good- exacting intricacies of silk production and ies to take home to your family and browse the Sally Williams will reveal the history of the items in our yard sale. You never know what heretofore unknown silk industry in Hiram might be there that you’ve wanted for a long in the early nineteenth century. Photographic time. Docents will be available for tours of our exhibit and display of articles made of silk. historical home and the archives will be open. Hiram Historical Society is located at 20 83 Main Road South, P O Box 456, Hampden, Historical Ridge, Hiram, ME 04041—off Rte Maine 04444. FMI: 207-862-2027 (leave a 117 (Main Street in Hiram Village). FMI: Sally message). Williams, 625-4762 or [email protected] . Two Hundred Years of the Academy: The 1813 Durgin Moore house—one of several Thornton Academy Bicentennial Exhibition historic structures during the Architectural EXHIBITION AT Lecture and Tour Program, September 17 at Dyer Library and Saco Museum Willowbrook. September 17 through November 13 Architectural Lecture and Tour A special exhibition presented simultaneously Willowbrook Museum, at the Dyer Library and Saco Museum this fall Newfield will be offered in conjunction with the bicen- Middle Intervale Meetinghouse, Bethel, 1816. Saturday, September 17, tennial celebrations of Thornton Academy. two tours at 1:00pm or 4:00pm Exploring tradition, mission and history, 200 Church & Meetinghouse: Peek into unexpected corners of two his- Years of the Academy celebrates Thornton A Historical and toric Newfield homesteads! Architectural Academy’s place in local history and the Architectural Tour Historian Ryan Hayward of The Preservation nation during the school’s Bicentennial year. Bethel Historical Society Collaborative, Inc., Medford, MA, will The exhibition will open with a special pre- September 17, 9 a.m. lead a 90-minute tour through the Durgin view reception (in conjunction with the open- Held in conjunction with the Bethel Area Moore and Trafton homes and barns, listed ing for concurrent Saco Museum exhibitions Chamber of Commerce’s 13th Annual “Harvest on the National Register of Historic Places. Drawn from the River and Christy Bergland: Fest,” this self-guided tour of a number of Enjoy a leisurely in-depth tour of rooms, Late Seasons of Great Pond, featured on page local churches and meetinghouses will take passageways, closets and other spaces not 1) on Wednesday, September 14 from 5:30 place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. usually open to the public. This is a rare to 7:30 p.m. The reception, held at the Saco Tickets, at $10/person, will be available at the opportunity to learn about the architecture, Museum, is FREE and open to the public; Society’s Robinson House (10 Broad Street) construction details and technological innova- members of Thornton Academy’s community beginning at 9:00 AM. A map containing pho- tions of the era that provided the house with are especially welcomed. FMI: (207) 283-3861 tographs and brief histories of each structure heat, power, light and water; as well as the / www.dyerlibrarysacomuseum.org. will be provided. Bethel Historical Society, current challenges in preserving historic struc- 10-14 Broad St., P.O. Box 12, Bethel, Maine tures for future generations. Event fee: $8, $5 04217. FMI: 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910; members. Space is limited to 15 at a time; call www.bethelhistorical.org —continued on page 11

10 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS

—continued from page 10 state’s political leaders, military officers, and enlisted men, while scenic photography will 207-793-2784 to reserve your space for the offer a glimpse into both the home front and 1:00 OR 4:00 program. Dress is casual, wear the battlefield. Post-war activities including comfortable shoes and be prepared to go up veterans’ parades and monument dedications and down steep stairs and through narrow pas- will also be discussed. Suggested donation is sageways. Willowbrook Museum is located at $3.00 for members and $5.00 for non-mem- 70 Elm Street, Newfield. FMI: (207) 793-2784 bers. The lecture will be held at the Log Cabin, / willowbrookmuseum.org. 196 Main Street, Yarmouth. FMI 846-6259 / Point basket by Ganessa Bryant, Passama- [email protected]. quoddy. Jefferson Historical Society artistic practice is a direct result of MIBA’s arts Meeting and Lecture programming over the past two decades. FMI: Friday, September 23, 7 p.m. www.umaine.edu/hudsonmuseum Les Fossell will present a program about Old Buildings of Lincoln County, with an emphasis Shaker Hill Apple Festival on the Old Jefferson Town House. Location: Event at Alfred Shaker Village Old Jefferson Town House, 7 Gardiner Road. September 24 and 25, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jefferson. FMI: 549-5258. Our Annual Shaker Hill Apple Festival will take place September 24 and 25 with a huge Nooks & Crannies yard sale, craft demonstrations such as Shaker Side chair by Duncan Phyfe, photo courtesy Tour of Castle Tucker broom making, tatting demonstrations, making Winterthur. Friday, September 23, 10 a.m. Shaker poplarware baskets, and making Shaker From Artisan to Mechanic: Join Site Manager Peggy Konitzky on a tour knitted rugs. Pies made from apples picked Duncan Phyfe and the that peeks into unexpected corners of this from the seven remaining trees planted by Early Nineteen-century Furniture Trade unique house in Wiscasset. Built in 1807, this the Shakers will be on sale as well as several Lecture at Regency-style mansion is filled with the fur- luncheon specials. Wagon rides through the Nickels-Sortwell House, nishings and belongings of the Tucker family former Alfred Shaker Village and many more Wiscasset who lived here from 1857-2003. The Tuckers special events make for an exciting day. Events Sunday, September 18, 3-4:30 p.m. were at the pinnacle of Wiscasset society for will start at 9 a.m. and close at 3 p.m. each day. Matthew Thurlow, former curator at New four generations but the public never saw FMI: [email protected]. York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and now the private turmoil of these lively and color- development officer at Winterthur, presents ful personalities. Enjoy a leisurely, in-depth From Artisan to Mechanic: Duncan Phyfe and experience of the house with stories and the Early Nineteen-century Furniture Trade, rooms not included on the general tour. See a lecture on the furniture of Duncan Phyfe where family, friends and servants stayed dur- Third Maine and his New York area contemporaries from ing the busy summers of the boarding house reenactor Glen period. Admission is $10 for Historic New 1805-1845. This lecture offers a special pre- Lawson at view of the Duncan Phyfe exhibition opening England members, $15 for nonmembers. The Willowbrook’s in December at the Metropolitan Museum tour begins at 10:00 a.m. Pre-registration for annual event. of Art. $5 Historic New England members, ticket purchase is required. FMI: 207-882- $10 nonmembers. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www. 7169 / www.HistoricNewEngland.org. HistoricNewEngland.org. Transcending Traditions: The Next Generation and Maine Indian Basketry Exhibition at Hudson Museum, University of Maine, Orono Annual Civil War Encampment Opens September 24 Willowbrook Museum The Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance Saturday, September 24, 10a.m.-3p.m. (MIBA) in collaboration with the Hudson Company A, Third Maine visits Willowbrook Museum received an Indigenous Contemporary in recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Arts Programs grant from the National Museum Civil War. Tour through the camp and chat of the American to support the development one-on-one with these knowledgeable reen- of an exhibit on the next generation of actors. Also on this day, author Jean Flahive Work table by Duncan Phyfe, photo courtesy Maine Indian basket makers. The exhibition signs her book, Billy Boy, The Sunday Soldier Winterthur. opens September 24 in conjunction with of the 17th Maine. Willowbrook Museum is the Collins Center for the Art’s gala and the located at 70 Elm Street, Newfield. FMI: (207) Civil War Photographs: An Illustrated Hudson Museum’s 25th anniversary. The 793-2784 / willowbrookmuseum.org. Discussion of Maine’s Soldiers and Veterans exhibit features the extraordinary art of five Lecture at contemporary Maine Indian basketmakers–who Art at Marrett Yarmouth Historical Society represent the next generation: Jeremy Frey Event at Marrett House, Monday, September 18, 7:30 p.m. (Passamaquoddy), Ganessa Bryant (Penob- Standish Maine State Historian Earle G. Shettleworth, scot), Sarah Sockbeson (Penobscot), George Saturday, October 1, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and Jr. will illustrate Maine’s important role in the Neptune (Passamaquoddy) and Eric “Otter” Sunday October 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Civil War through period images of the people Bacon (Passamaquoddy). These artists range Come see Maine art at its best! Stroll around and places that figured in this epic American in age from early 20’s to early 30’s and their conflict. Portrait photographs will depict the —continued on page 12

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter 11 EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS —continued from page 11 Columbus Day Holiday Hours at Castle Tucker and Marrett House the grounds of the 1789 Marrett House, home to three generations of the Monday, October 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. most prominent family of rural Standish, Maine. Enjoy art and artists Commemorate the discovery of America by taking a historic house tour. and take a free tour of the house. The Marrett House parlor is preserved Built in 1807 and lived in by one family from 1858 until the turn of the exactly as it was decorated for an 1847 family wedding. The Saco River 21st century, Castle Tucker reveals the life of an upper middle-class Art League and other Maine artists will be on hand to display and sell Victorian family in Wiscasset. Step back in time and hear the story of their work. Fair hours on Saturday are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fair hours on Captain Richard Tucker, Jr., his wife Mollie and their five children in Sunday are 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. There will be a silent auction of works the setting of their home in this large, fully-furnished, Regency style chosen by the artists to benefit the Marrett House and Historic New mansion. Castle Tucker is located at 2 Lee Street in Wiscasset. Built England. Marrett House is located at 40 Ossippee Trail East (Route 25), in 1789, Marrett House was home to three generations of the most Standish. FMI: 207-882-7169 / www.HistoricNewEngland.org. prominent family of rural Standish, Maine. Hear the stories of this large and colorful family in the setting of their home. The parlor is preserved Quiet Warrior: exactly as it was decorated for an 1847 family wedding. Marrett House William Sumner Appleton and the is located at 40 Ossippee Trail East (Route 25), Standish. Both houses Battles to Save Maine’s Historic Homes will be open from 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Admission is free for Historic Lecture at Nickels-Sortwell House, Wiscasset New England members and $5 for nonmembers. FMI: 207-882-7169 / Sunday, October 2, 3 p.m. www.HistoricNewEngland.org. William Sumner Appleton founded the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities in 1910 as a regional heritage preserva- Environmental Legacies: tion organization. One of America’s first professional preservation- Land-Clearing, Forest Use, and Conservation in ists, he helped fight the battles to save Victoria Mansion, Castle Northern New England, 1820-1920 Tucker, Nickels-Sortwell House and many other Maine landmarks. Site Lecture at the Manager Peggy Konitzky tells the story of this remarkable man and his Bethel Historical Society contributions to Maine. The lecture will be held at 3 p.m. in the Nickels- October 15, 2011, 2 p.m. Sortwell House Barn, 121 Main Street, (entrance on Federal Street) This first annual Stanley Russell Howe Lecture is presented in honor Wiscasset. Admission is $5 for Historic New England members and $10 of the Society’s longtime Executive Director, and in celebration of for nonmembers. Pre-registration is recommended. FMI: 207-882-7169 the 100th anniversary of the “Weeks Act” (the 1911 Federal law that / www.HistoricNewEngland.org. allowed for lands in the eastern U.S. to be acquired and maintained as national forests). The speaker will be Dr. Richard Judd, Col. James C. McBride Professor of History at the University of Maine and an expert in the field of U.S. environmental history, particularly in New England. Mason House exhibit hall, 2:00 PM. Bethel Historical Society, 10-14 Broad St., P.O. Box 12, Bethel, Maine 04217; 207-824-2908 / 800-824- 2910; www.bethelhistorical.org Hiram Historical Society Meeting and Lecture Archival Storage and Presentation Products October 15, meeting at 2 p.m., program 2:30 Jacqueline Field, former professor of textiles and design at Westbrook College, will examine the HHS collection of antique clothing, including military uniforms, and talk about the care, dating of, and preservation of historical dress. Hiram Historical Society is located at 20 Historical Ridge, Hiram, ME 04041 - off Rte 117 (Main Street in Hiram Village), FMI: Sally Williams, 625-4762 or [email protected]. & MORE A Building History of Northern New England Lecture at Yarmouth Historical Society Monday, October 24, 7:30 p.m. Join New Hampshire State Architectural Historian James Garvin for a talk at the Yarmouth Historical Society on Monday, October 24 at 7:30 p.m. This lecture is not about restoring old buildings; rather, it is a nec- essary prelude to preservation or restoration. It is about understanding old buildings through the form and pattern of architecture in Northern New England. Suggested donation is $3.00 for members and $5.00 for non-members. The lecture will be held at the Log Cabin, 196 Main Street, Yarmouth. FMI: 846-6259 / [email protected]. % Jefferson Historical Society SAVE 15 Meeting and Lecture Use   #13512 on next order Friday, October 28, 7 p.m. Limited Time Offer – Expires September 30th 2011 Jason Libby will present a program on Ralph Rexford Libby, his great- grandfather who kept a journal telling of his family and life in Jefferson in the early 1900’s. Location: Old Jefferson Town House, 7 Gardiner Road, Jefferson. FMI: 549-5258. •

12 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 DISPATCHES Our member organizations report on news, awards, and achievements from throughout the state. STATEWIDE The Umbrella Cover Museum on Peaks MAM Member Institutions Take Honors Island, Maine has a lot going on right now. in 2011 NEMA Publication Awards The new website, as colorful and quirky as this The New England Museum Association spon- museum of umbrella sleeves itself, came online sors an annual Publication Awards Program, in June, 2011, at www.UmbrellaCoverMuseum. which recognizes excellence in design, pro- org. Another internet sensation has been the duction, and effective communication in all weekly weather reports from the museum. aspects of museum publishing. Entries are Done in a casual and amusing style, the judged by a panel experienced in publica- reports can be seen on Youtube by searching tion, design, marketing and communications. for Umbrella Cover Museum Weather Report. Awards are given to those entries which most Guest director and filmmaker from Belgium, effectively present their message to the intend- Hans Manshoven, did an exceptional job on ed audience. The 2011 Judges were Deb the report from June 23rd, if you only have Pesanti Payson, Director of Development & chance to watch one. There are now about Communications, Essex National Heritage 700 umbrella covers in the museum from Commission, and Jeff Stammen, Senior 44 different countries. Knowing that there is Graphic Designer, Christopher Chadbourne a story behind the cover, the donor of each + Associates. Congratulations to these MAM cover is asked to write an anecdote to go members who won awards! along with their submission. The accession form is online on the website if any MAM Joint Third Place, Books over $10: Brick member would like to make a contribution to Store Museum, Windows on the Past: An this ordinary exceptional collection. Please Illustrated Guide to Kennebunk’s History email or call for hours for your visit: info@ through Architecture. Project Director: Tracy umbrellacovermuseum.org, (207) 939-0301. L. Baetz; Outside Designers: Claire Bigbee and Lauren Fries, Dietz Associates Inc. READFIELD The Readfield Historical Society received a Third Place, Exhibition Catalogues Under with original documents and never-before- $457.32 grant from the Maine State Archives’ $10: Saco Museum, Making History: Art published photographs, the book traces Eliza’s Historical Records Collections Grant Program and Industry in the Saco River Valley. Project life from New England mill girl, to young to “Save the Little Cards.” The “little cards” are Director: Jessica Skwire Routhier; Outside married woman and mother, to war widow about 4,000 3x5 index cards on which is hand- Designer: Sue Gold, Custom Communications, and victim of consumption. 572 pp., softcover, written valuable information about the early Inc. $34.95. FMI: 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910; settlers of the town. In the 1980s, three ladies, www.bethelhistorical.org. themselves in their 80s, sifted through every Honorable Mention, Calendar of Events piece of paper they could find in the Historical and Programs, Seal Cove Auto Museum, DAMARISCOTTA Society’s holdings at the time, and every time Automobile Calendar for 2010. Project Director A new title from Arcadia Publishing, they came to a name, they either made a new and In-House Designer: Roberto Rodriguez. Damariscotta Lake, was published on July 11 card or added to one already extant, with the and is now available for sale. The book was a information. The result is all these cards with BETHEL collaborative effort by the historical societies bits of information in non-chronological order. The Bethel Historical Society is pleased to of Jefferson, Newcastle and Nobleboro, and (For instance, So-and-So worked on the roads announce the release of “Write Quick”: War the Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association. in 1898 and was paid $3, or Mr. Somebody and a Woman’s Life in Letters, 1836-1867. The story of Damariscotta Lake is told through was a member of the Methodist Society in X Published in a new, second edition by the over 200 old photos and text. To order, please year.) The cards now will be sheathed in non- BHS and transcribed and edited by Ann Fox call 549-5258 or [email protected] or acid sleeves so that they may be used without Chandonnet and Roberta Gibson Pevear, this send a check to Jefferson Historical Society, harm from handling. book is based on Civil War era documents, let- P.O. Box 302, Jefferson ME 04348. ($21.99 ters and diaries donated to the Bethel Historical + $1.10 ME sales tax, total of $23.09 + $2.00 SACO Society by Mrs. Pevear in 2005. The book tells shipping.) The Saco Museum is now accepting appli- the story of one New England family’s daily cations from artists for the 2012 Mill-ennial experiences on the Civil War home front and PEAKS ISLAND exhibition, a juried exhibit of works in ALL battlefield, through never-before-published pri- The Fifth Maine Regiment Museum has media, including performance, film and video. mary source materials. Andrew Bean, a teacher received a $10,000 grant from the Davis Any artist who can demonstrate a signifi- and farmer from Bethel, Maine, answered the Family Foundation in support of the Maine cant connection to Saco, call to the Union infantry. His younger sister, Civil War Trail. The Maine Civil War Trail Biddeford, or Old Orchard Eliza, having found both employment and a is a statewide collaboration of museums and Beach is invited to apply. suitable marriage in the bustling mill city of cultural organizations, all of whom will pres- Download and print a Lowell, Massachusetts, soon saw her husband, ent exhibitions and programs in the summer call for entries at www. Henry C. Foster, enlist as well. In more than of 2013 related to Maine’s role in the Civil sacomuseum.org/PDF/ 150 revealing letters dispatched from camp War. The Davis Family Foundation grant will Millennial2012.pdf or and field and home front, as well as Eliza Bean support production of a website and brochure receive a printed copy Foster’s own diary, the honors and horrors of to promote the collaboration. FMI: www.fifth- by e-mailing museum@ war play out on an intimate stage. Illustrated mainemuseum.org / (207) 766-3330. —continued on page 14

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter 13 DISPATCHES

—continued from page 13 work was hard, and the teamsters generally halted their horses at the end of each row so sacomuseum.org or calling (207) 283-3861. the horses could catch their breath and let their Postmark/drop-off deadline is October 30! heart rates return to normal. During these halts, teamsters checked over their horses’ leather The Dyer Library and Saco Museum are also harness and metal plowing equipment for pleased to report the completion of funding broken parts. A broken metal part might mean for the project to conserve and interpret the a possible injury to a horse and/or loss of valu- Moving Panorama of Pilgrim’s Progress, a able work time. If a metal part was found to be rare, 8 x 850-foot painting on canvas created broken, the farm forge would need to be fired in 1851. Recent grants from the Maine Arts up or a trip to the nearest blacksmith to make Commission and the Davis Family Foundation the necessary repair. This is precisely what have completed the fundraising phase for this happened at the 21st century Skyline Farm/ $155,000, which includes the conservation Jack Rakove at the Margaret Chase Smith Deri Farm Plow Day this year. One of the treatment of the panorama, the creation of a Library on June 9. teamsters, plowing in the field, discovered a full-size replica that can be “performed” in broken metal plow control arm. He thought he motion (as the original was meant to be seen), School in Standish. Third place and $125 was was done for the day and unhitched his team. creation of a web-based animation of the presented to Allaina Murphy of St. Dominic As luck would have it, Tim Greene was giving panorama that can be “performed” on-demand, Regional High School in Auburn. In addition, blacksmithing chain-making and metal-twist- a major exhibition in the summer of 2012, a the library awarded five honorable mention ing demonstrations using Skyline’s old forge. publication with Kent State University Press, prizes of $25, along with a book about Senator Tim said he could fix the broken metal arm in a distinguished lecture series, and more. For Smith to: Devyn Bell from Dexter Regional much the same manner as it would have been more information about the panorama project, High School, Joe Bosse of St. Dominic done in bygone days. Tim made the “on the visit www.sacomuseum.org or call 283-3861. Regional High School, Sarabeth George from spot” metal weld with the addition of Borax Bonny Eagle High School, Krysta Moulton and melted brass. To the fascination of the of Madison Area Memorial High School, and many spectators, the part was reinstalled and Kaity Richard from Acadia Christian School the idle draft team put right back into service! in Trenton. The Margaret Chase Smith Library held its annual Maine Town Meeting on June 9. The speaker was Pulitzer Prize-winning, Stanford University historian Jack Rakove. Drawing upon research for his most recent book, Revolutionaries: a New History of the Invention of America, Rakove focused on the revolutionary significance of the First Amendment. His major point was that where- as most rights limit the authority of the gov- ernment, free conscience and free exercise of religion are premised on the idea of individual At Skyline Farm’s Plow Day demonstration, Ali Clift moral autonomy. Rakove’s remarks resonated with an audience familiar with Senator Smith’s blacksmith Tim Greene is fabricating a figure SKOWHEGAN act of conscience when she spoke out against 8 link to connect chain. Photo by Ed Morin of The Margaret Chase Smith Library is the excesses of McCarthyism in her famous Portland, Maine. pleased to announce the winners of its 15th 1950 “Declaration of Conscience.” The event Skyline Farm annual essay contest, the theme of which this drew over fifty participants who had oppor- The vehicle collection contin- year was stewardship of the environment. tunities to question Dr. Rakove extensively, ues to grow in numbers and quality. In the first First prize of $500 went to Zoe Anderson of have him autograph his book, and discuss the six months of this year the collection commit- Medomak Valley High School in Waldoboro. implications for our own times of his argu- tee has added eight vehicles, for a new total of The recipient of the $250 award for second ment about the centrality of conscience in the 107. New vehicles include its first three seat place was Ali Clift from Bonny Eagle High American experience. sleigh, a finely made Portland Cutter (pos- sibly attributed to Brewster Co.), and a large unique wheeled lumber/log carrier all gifted YARMOUTH by Margaret and Sut Marshall. Others include Visitors to Skyline Farm this spring experi- a J.C. Safford, Exeter, New Hampshire Boston enced a rare and genuine moment of living Chaise, lovely Concord Wagon, Downing & history. The beginning of spring on a turn-of- Abbott Pleasure Wagon, four wheel Racing the-century farm meant readying the land for Cart gifted by Deborah Plengey, and most planting. Horses needed to be muscled-up for recently, an ornate Democrat wagon gifted by the backbreaking work ahead, and the plowing Lorna and Donald Dorsey. • equipment needed to be dusted off, inspected, and sharpened. The cool early morning scene of steam rising up over the backs of muscular teams of draft horses, turning over row after row of earth, must have been quite a sight. The Zoe Anderson

14 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 Visit the past at Windham’s Village Green by Kay Soldier he population of Windham, Maine, also tourists who enjoy visiting museums and has nearly tripled since the Windham places like Norlands and Plymouth. Historical Society was organized in T1967. Farms and farmland have been replaced A lifelong Windham resident and society by housing developments. Villages have given member spearheads one of the most successful way to commercial development. The past annual fundraisers, an old-fashioned Christmas seems to be disappearing, but things are about Fair. The event is anticipated by many and fea- to change if Windham Historical Society has tures all handmade items, seasonal music and its way. décor. Norma Rogers is aware of the promise this project holds: Approximately a decade after the society was formed, one of its members, a retired teacher, “For some time we have needed more space volunteered to help instill a sense of local structure located close by, will be moved to the to be able to accept donations of larger items history by hosting a school-sponsored “history Village Green. The circa 1820 Windham Center such as farm implements and many more tour” of the town, pointing out important sites Circulating Library is presently adjacent to the items. With donations from people who could and providing a more in-depth view of the rich headquarters, and it will be relocated on the site. visualize our dreams of having a space for local history. Today, more than 40 years after A barn, either acquired or built from scratch, historical buildings for our displays we were formation, the hunger for information about will provide space for classes and displays of able to make the down payment and acquire the past is growing and Windham Historical farm equipment; a little building presently on- the property. There is an opportunity to have Society continues to work with the schools, site may become a blacksmith shop; and there an area for people to come and view the way of enriching the knowledge of local history. is promise of acquisition of a circa 1837 brick living in the past, to do research on cemeteries, Society member Walter Lunt, another retired schoolhouse. genealogy, and so much more.” teacher, provides a day-long “tour” to hundreds Members of the Windham Historical Society Linda Griffin, current President of Windham of third graders, their teachers and parents are committed to this project. Walter Lunt, the Historical Society, is the point person for this each year. This is preceded by his visit to the retired teacher who provides volunteer history huge project and comes well qualified. When classroom where he explains the next day’s bus bus trips each year, explains: she isn’t tending her real estate business, she’s trip. teaching a class about house restoration, lead- “I’m involved with Village Green because I ing a tour of ancient properties or helping It has long been evident, given the growth hope it will contribute to the sense of place of the town, that for the society to continue save history by salvaging old doors, windows, I felt while growing up in Windham. I work hardware and even granite foundation blocks. its work, including preserving the history, with nearly 200 third-graders on behalf of providing education and protecting our unique In the past local folks have seen her in cov- the (Windham) Historical Society because eralls, up on a ladder, removing centuries-old resources, more space was needed. With more I truly believe that ties with the past, both space, the Society could give workshops, and parts of buildings which are being demolished. intellectual and emotional, create inseparable Recently, an old house and barn was purchased eventually perhaps have a living history center. bonds with the present, and a desire to carry What a dream it was! by the town so the property could be razed and on that heritage into the future. Programs that used for additional parking. Since the property Members of the society could envision the fields purport to address the so-called ‘brain drain’ is within view of the site of the Village Green, behind the current building, sited in Windham (the tendency of our best and brightest to it was thought perhaps the barn could be saved Center, in the former town house (c.1833), as a leave Maine for better opportunities) ignore and used in the project. This was not meant to place ideal for such a project. In the fall of 2010, the staying power of sense of place, which is be, but with persuasion and straight talk, Griffin the owner of the abutting property decided to fostered by being steeped in heritage during managed to obtain “salvage rights” for the sell the very old house, adjacent buildings and the early years by family, neighborhood, and society. Volunteers, under Griffin’s guidance, the two and a half acres of fields. The society schools.” were busy during the summer carefully remov- acted quickly and contacted all members, the Another enthusiastic Village proponent is ing shutters, doors, moldings and anything that public and anyone else remotely connected Penny Sayward Loura, whose ancestors logged might be reused in creating Village Green. with Windham, including high school alumni! and farmed in Windham for generations: In a matter of a few weeks, funds were raised A full schedule of fundraising activities con- for a down payment – the dream was going to “As a relatively new member, I feel the acqui- tinues at Windham Historical Society. When become a reality. sition of the this property is a blessing; so close possible, double mortgage payments are being and easily visualized ... a barn with storage for made. Donations of labor and in-kind con- It’s called Village Green, and its location is the larger farm equipment, a working black- tributions help a great deal. A busy Grant in the center of town, near schools, town hall, smith shop (and we have a blacksmith in our Committee seeks every opportunity for sup- and the library. The five-year plan calls for membership). Windham people are very com- port. Fundraising activities have included plant paying down the mortgage and systematic munity-minded and I have no doubt this small and garden sales, the Christmas Fair, guided development of the property with financial village will happen. Just how many people tours of local historic sites, membership drives help from fundraisers, grants, and the support does it take to make a village? Stay tuned.” and other events. This fall, the society will of the community. The society owns three of conduct its annual campaign and offer busi- the town’s most historic buildings and plans to In the future, children from the nearby primary nesses of all sizes the opportunity of having a include them in the Village Green. The 1833 school, middle school and high school will be link on the historical society’s website. brick town house, headquarters for so many able to walk to history, only steps away from years, will be renovated to provide handicap their technology-ruled world. When the project For more information about the progress of accessibility but otherwise “look the same.” is completed, the Village Green is envisioned Village Green, visit www.windhamhhistorical. The so-called Old Grocery, an 1820 wood as a destination for not only area schools, but org or call Linda Griffin, (207) 892-0900. •

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter 15 Documenting the Present A View Through a “Window on History” by the Belfast Historical Society and Museum

Belfast Main Street, 1880s

s the Belfast Historical Society and question occurred: “How do we share what we of both current and prior “Window on History” Museum worked through the winter document?” And, with this question came the programs. And, we’ve been told, the DVDs to prepare its 2011 program sched- answer: The Media—television, the Internet, given to the Belfast Free Library are borrowed Aule, a recurring question arose: “How do we and home video. before they are even shelved. Given their document the present?” Focused as we were popularity, additional DVDs of each month’s on documenting Belfast’s earlier times, we Belfast enjoys the presence of a local cable “Window on History” have been printed and didn’t want to lose sight of the present, that is, television network which serves approximate- are available for purchase. “tomorrow’s past.” ly 1,200 homes. Always looking for interest- ing programming, the network’s director was We’ve succeeded in both documenting the BHS&M’s free, monthly public presentations delighted to work with BHS&M to develop a present and making it accessible to more about Belfast and its varied history were multi-media package. The “package” included people. We’ve combined Belfast’s past and slated to begin in April. Over the following a television program, a filmed and edited present and brought them home to the public, seven months, guest speakers and local histo- version of BHS&M’s monthly presentations; thanks to “Window on History.” rians would be considering topics as varied as an upload of the television program to the Belfast’s early commercial enterprises, 19th- Internet; and DVDs of the television program “Window On History” is aired on BCTV-2 century architectural styles, Belfast’s mid- which were to be made available to the local (Belfast Community Television) Tuesdays at 7 20th-century sardine and poultry industries, public library and, thus, available throughout p.m., Thursdays at 9:30 a.m., and Saturdays at traditional musical instruments of the British Maine through its inter-library loan system. 4:30 p.m. Available on Vimeo on our website: Isles, and Belfast during the Civil War years. www.belfastmuseum.org. Financing the project was the next challenge. But in spite of all the research and preparation The Belfast Historical Society is located at that was dedicated to developing such pro- Fortunately, a generous gift from one of Belfast’s oldest manufacturing firms, Mathews 10 Market Street, Belfast, ME, 04915. The grams, there would be no record to reference in BHS holds seven monthly program meetings the future. In addition, fewer than 100 people Brothers, made the “package” complete. And, on May 3, 2011, the Belfast Historical Society April through October, fourth Monday of each would probably attend and enjoy each month’s month. Programs are held at the Belfast Free presentation. There might, we thought, be a and Museum premiered its new program, “Window on History.” Library at 7pm. All programs are free and larger audience “out there,” if only we could open to the public. Coming up are: August access them. Each month’s “Window on History” is avail- 22, Movie Night, film clips from the Belfast It seemed obvious that filming each month’s able for television viewers to watch on Belfast Museum’s Robert Hall film collection, 1920s program would address the basic question, Community Television, BCTV-2, during the to the 1980s in Belfast; September 26, Images “How do we document the present?” Filming four weeks after each public presentation. from the Photographic Collection of the presentations had been tried before, but the Three different, dedicated time-slots—a day, Penobscot Marine Museum, Kevin Johnson, quality of the end-product had been highly evening, and weekend hour—make viewing photo-archivist; October 24, Belfast During dependent upon the skill and equipment of easy and accessible. The Belfast Historical the Civil War, Megan Pinette President, Belfast the good soul who volunteered at any given Society and Museum’s web site, www.belfast Historical Society. For more information: 207 time. As we considered this issue, a second museum.org, now offers on-demand viewing 338-9229 / [email protected], •

16 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 OPPORTUNITIES 21st-Century Skills Workshops its. Contact Pauleena MacDougall, 110 South Stevens The Politics of Conscience: The Maine Historical Society and Maine State Archives, Hall, University of Maine, 207 581-1848, Pauleena@ Margaret Chase Smith and in partnership with Maine Archives and Museums, is maine.edu, www.umaine.edu/folklife. Today’s Political Climate offering 21st-Century Skills Workshops for historical CONFERENCE SEASON IS COMING UP! Symposium presented by society and museum professionals, staff, and volunteers. Save these dates and check the organizations’ websites for the Maine Humanities Council The FREE half-day workshops will introduce attendees updated information! Good Will-Hinckley, Hinckley, Maine to the opportunities that local history, technology, and Friday, September 30, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Maine Memory Network provide to develop professional American Association of State and Local History Today’s divisive political atmosphere has prompted much skills, increase the capacity of their organizations, engage Commemoration: hand-wringing and analysis in the popular media. The their communities, and deepen collaboration with local The Promise of Remembrance and New Beginnings United States also experienced extreme politics during schools, libraries, and other community organizations. September 14-17, 2011 • Richmond, Virginia the Cold War, and one of the few Senators to protest The workshop includes an in-depth, interactive demon- www.aaslh.org the lack of civility was Margaret Chase Smith. The first stration of Maine Memory Network and its many search Sustaining Heritage, Sustaining Communities woman to be elected to both houses of Congress (and tools and content offerings. Workshops will be offered in Museums and Historic Preservation in the 21st Century more often than not the only woman in the Senate), spring/summer and fall in regions around the state over Friday, September 30, 2011 • Boston Athenaeum Smith’s “Declaration of Conscience” speech, given in the next three years. Upcoming 2011 locations include: www.nicholshousemuseum.org response to Senator Joseph McCarthy’s interrogations of Turner Memorial Library, Presque Isle New England Archivists suspected Communists, represents the power of an indi- (August 4, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) Teaching with Primary Sources vidual holding firm to her own moral compass. In this Lubec Memorial Library (August 18, 1-4 p.m.) Oct. 14 - 15, 2011 • Dartmouth College, Hanover, N.H. one-day program, we will explore the influence of Mar- McArthur Public Library, Biddeford www.newenglandarchivists.org garet Chase Smith’s approach to politics, focusing on the (October 11, 2-5 p.m.); culture in Congress (both then and now) and the women Rumford Public Library (October 12, 2-5 p.m.) Maine Archives and Museums who have followed in her footsteps. All participants will Topsham Public Library (October 13, 2-5 p.m.) Partnerships and Best Practices receive a copy of the Margaret Chase Smith biography No Newport Cultural Center (October 27, 1-4 p.m.) Friday, October 28, 2011 Place for a Woman by Janann Sherman. Morning refresh- Newport Cultural Center, Newport, Maine ments and lunch will be included. CEUs will be available. Note that the October 27 workshop is offered in con- www.mainemuseums.org Conference fee: $50 ($20 for college students and free for junction with Maine Archives and Museums’ Annual New England Museum Association K-12 students). FMI and to register, visit http://mainehu- Conference, which will take place at the same location the manities.org/special-programs/MargaretChaseSmith/ following day. For more information and to register, visit Museums in the Mirror: http://www.mainememory.net/training or contact MHS’s Reflecting Relevance in a Diverse Society Historical Records Collection Grant Program Community Partnership Coordinator Larissa Vigue Picard November 16-18, 2011 • Hartford, Connecticut Single Deadline for Major Archival Projects at 774-1822, ext. 215, [email protected]. www.nemanet.org will be in October “What Do Borders Mean?” The Historical Records Collection grant program will con- Maine Memory Network tinue, but with one major change. Instead of two deadlines Grants and Training Available Lecture Presented by the Maine Humanities Council Free and Open to the Public for Major Projects (grant awards up to $4000), there will Next Grant Deadline: September 1 September 16 at the Cary Library, Houlton, 5-8 p.m. be a single deadline of October 1, 2011. Basic Projects Maine Historical Society, in partnership with the Maine September 17 at the St. John Valley Technology Center, (grant awards up to $1000) will continue to have rolling State Library, and thanks to support from the Institute for Frenchville, 9 a.m. - noon deadlines through June 2012. Basic Project applications Museum and Library Services (IMLS), has a variety of The term “border” has so many interpretations: personal, are accepted at any time, but should be submitted at least Maine Memory Network grant and training opportunities professional, political. Living on a political border influ- six weeks before a project begins. The grant program open to historical organizations and museums over the ences people’s lifestyles and perspectives, and arguably is sponsored by the Maine Historical Records Advisory next three years. Grants are now available to help orga- contributes to a very special experience. Join us for a Board (MHRAB) and funded by the National Historical nizations and community teams digitize local historical short lecture by Scott See, Libra Professor of History at Publications and Records Commission. The primary pur- collections (up to $750), create online exhibits related University of Maine, followed by an opportunity for read- pose of the Historical Records Collection grant program to topics in the community’s history (up to $1250), and ing and reflective discussion on the history and contem- is to preserve Maine’s significant historical records (e.g., build websites that gather and provide access to the porary issues of the border. We hope to see you at this free manuscripts, photographs, architectural drawings, exist- community’s history (up to $3,000). The next grant program...bring your friends! The program will include ing audiotapes, video tapes) and make them available to deadline is September 1. (Subsequent deadlines: April a lecture and small group discussion as well as light the public. More information and application forms can 1 and September 1, 2012.) For details, visit www.maine refreshments. CEUs will be available for K-12 teachers be found at http://www.maine.gov/sos/arc/mhrab/grants. memory.net/grants. and Adult Education instructors. The same program will html. You can also contact Janet Roberts (287-5791; janet. On-line Oral History Course through University be held at both locations; register for one at http://maine- [email protected]) to get answers to questions and to of Maine Continuing and Distance Education humanities.org/special-programs/borders/. request forms. Organizations that are planning to apply for Major Projects grants are strongly encouraged to contact ANT 425/MES498 Recorded Interviewing Techniques Participate in National Museum Day: and Methods: Ms. Roberts as they develop their applications. This course, offered for Fall 2011, will September 24, 2011 introduce students to the theory and methodology of Join over 1,300 museums and cultural institutions across IMLS Grant Deadlines Coming Up ethnographic and oral history fieldwork as it is practiced the country in a national celebration of culture and learn- The Institute of Museum and Library Service’s by social scientists and humanities researchers. Students ing. Museum Day, sponsored by Smithsonian Magazine, Conservation Project Support program helps collect- will learn to prepare research plans, develop questions, is a nationwide event where participating museums and ing institutions identify conservation needs and priorities and conduct and record interviews. They will learn how cultural institutions across the country offer free admis- and perform activities that ensure the safekeeping of their to navigate the essential practices of permissions, under- sion on September 24, 2011 to anyone presenting a collections. It assigns priority to the development and stand the concepts of copyright of research materials as it Museum Day Ticket. Participation in the event is FREE implementation of a logical, institution-wide approach pertains to interviews, and fulfill the requirements of the and will provide your museum with a tremendous amount to caring for their living and material collections. Grants Institutional Review Board for the Protection of Human of exposure through advertising and publicity. For details are available for many types of conservation activities, Subjects (IRB) - Required Training at the University of and registration, visit www.smithsonian.com/museum including surveys, training, treatment, and environmental Maine. Students will learn about the practices of archiving day/register/2011. improvements. Deadline: October 31 for grants up to research materials and how to interpret and incorporate $150,00. A 1:1 match is required for the total project interview research into a research paper or documentary. request. FMI: (202) 653-4636/[email protected]. No prerequisites. May be taken for graduate credit.3 cred- —continued on page 18

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter 17 SEEN & HEARD

ABOVE: Students from the ABOVE: Illustrator Kerry LaPointe signs a University of New England’s new children’s book about the 1894 carousel “History Hands-On” course at Willowbrook for Samuel, Benjamin pose with professors Beth and Michah Gerry. DurgenHouse porch, DeWolfe and Camille Smalley at Willowbrook, Newfield. the opening of their exhibition at the Saco Museum, Voyage and the Great Age of Sail.

RIGHT: Enjoying the opening reception for Trade, Religion, and Warfare in York and Southern Maine at the Museums of Old York, June 4, 2011.

Opportunities, continued from page 17 Museums for America grants strengthen a museum’s ability to serve the public more effectively by supporting high-priority activities that advance the institution’s mission and strategic goals. Museums for America grants are designed to be flexible: funds can be used for a wide variety of new or ongoing museum activities and programs, ABOVE: On May 17, 2011, Boothbay Region such as improvement of institutional infrastructure, planning, management of collections, public access, profes- Historical Society celebrated the dedication sional development, purchase of equipment or services, research and scholarship, public programming and exhibi- of the Marion Dash room at their annual tions, development and/or implementation of education programs, or efforts by museums to upgrade and integrate meeting. The election of new board members new technologies into their overall institutional effectiveness. Grants are awarded in the following categories: 1) also took place. Pictured from left to right: Engaging Communities; 2) Building Institutional Capacity; and 3) Collections Stewardship. Deadline: November exiting board president John McKown, current 1, 2011 for grants from $5,000 to $150,000. A 1:1 match is required for the total project request. FMI: (202) 653- director Barbara Rumsey, and incoming board 4634/[email protected]. president Sally Bullard. NEMA Salary & Benefits Survey Reliable, up-to-date information to help you run your institution is always at a premium. That’s why museums value NEMA’s New England Museum Salary & Benefits Survey. It provides salary figures for almost 50 key museum job positions and the benefits museums around New England offer their employees—essential information that helps keep your museum competitive in the all-important human resources arena. Of course, the quality of the informa- tion depends on the participation of museums like yours. This year, the survey is online, making it easier than ever to participate. All you need to do is point your browser to www.surveymonkey.com/s/nemasalarysurvey. NEMA aggregates your information with that of your colleagues, then presents it in an easy to read format that tracks by size and type of institution. You can be assured that your museum’s specific data is always kept confidential. Those who complete the survey are e-mailed a complimentary copy of the final report, to be published later this year (a $60 value). Yarmouth Historical Society Seeks New Program Director The position requires a professional with a M.A. in the Humanities field. Excellent interpersonal skills are required as well as administrative and planning skills. A background with Past Perfect is required. This position will involve working closely with collections. Experience in the Education field will be considered as the Program Director will be involved in developing and coordinating lectures, events and in-house communications. Local knowledge is a plus. M-F, 24 hours/week. Occasional special events take place after hours. Competitive hourly LEFT: Camp Kohut (Oxford, Maine) campers wage. No benefits. Qualified candidates please send résumés and three references to [email protected]. and counselors enjoying the Umbrella Cover No phone calls. Museum on Peaks Island in June. Umbrella Covers reign!

18 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter Vol. 14, No. 3 MAINE ARCHIVES & MUSEUMS

PURPOSE Discounts on Museum and Archival Supplies Maine Archives and Museums is a membership organization whose purpose Offered to all MAM members by Brodart, Gaylord, and University Products. is to develop and foster a network of citizens and institutions in Maine who identify, collect, interpret and/or provide access to materials relating to his- JOIN/RENEW TODAY! tory and culture. Your support and participation enable MAM to provide ever-improved MEMBERSHIP services to Maine’s cultural community of historical societies, archives, museums and galleries. We have very important work to do. By working Students, trustees, volunteers, entry-level or experienced paid and unpaid together, we can realize our vital dreams and visions. professionals, museum and historical society members, the interested public and service providers — all are welcome as members of MAM. ★ JOIN MAINE’S CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS E-MAIL LIST! BENEFITS This is a great opportunity to share with others what we are all doing and to Quarterly Newsletter get information about problems, resources, grant opportunities, and more. Provides information on funding opportunities; books and publications; Maine’s cultural community has an e-mail based discussion forum avail- statewide museum, historical society, archives news and activities; shared able through the Internet. Intended for archives, museum, historical society, resources; all-volunteer organizations; ideas that work in Maine; computers; preservation, arts, library, etc., organizations, their professional staff and conservation; technical questions; ethical matters. active volunteers, the Maine Cultural Organization List Serve is a way of Listings keeping in touch. If you’re not familiar with this type of thing, it’s a way of On the Department of Tourism’s Internet/World Wide Web sending an e-mail message to everyone who has joined “the list.” When you Home Page (free!). join, you also receive any message posted to the list by others. You can read, ignore, or respond as you please. You need to subscribe before you can send Annual Conference and receive list messages. Opportunities to gather with fellow professionals, volunteers and other col- leagues in the state to share ideas, network and review and acquire the skills To subscribe, point your web browser to http://lists.maine.edu/archives/ to manage our state’s cultural resources. mcultr-l.html. Click on “Join or leave the list,” and follow the directions. Then, whenever you send mail to the list at [email protected], Regional Workshops all subscribers will see your message and will be able to respond to the list Conference topics listed above are also available as local and regional in general or to your own address. If you have problems subscribing, e-mail workshops to make attendance easier and to tailor needs to local issues and [email protected]. groups of societies, museums and archives.

Vol. 14, No. 3 Maine Archives & Museums Newsletter 19 with staff trained and ready to implement them. Even with a plan in place, museums, libraries, and archives can easily be overwhelmed by a catastrophic event, especially a regional disaster that also affects the personal lives of staff, their families, and the community at large. AIC-CERT can provide volunteer expertise for advice, coordination of salvage efforts, assessments, and referrals for a broad range of cultural materials. AIC-CERT is a volunteer program designed to assist collecting institu- tions on an emergency basis. Team members can provide advice and referrals by phone or by email. Onsite assistance, as funds are available, typically is limited to one or two days of assessment, organization of salvage efforts, and recommendations for follow-up care of affected collections. Larger-scale salvage or treatment of damaged items should Accidental fire to a historic Maine home in 2002. normally be done by paid professionals. Insurance or government emergency funds are typically available to support these kinds of post- disaster needs. Disaster Response for There is no cost to the affected institution for the services of AIC-CERT. Members volunteer their expertise and time; FAIC supports their travel Cultural Institutions: AIC-CERT costs. by Jon Brandon For 24-hour assistance you may call the AIC-CERT hotline at (202) 661- 8068. Less urgent questions can also be answered by emailing info@ Assistance is now available to institutions that have expe- conservation-us.org. The hotline will put you in touch with a volunteer rienced a disaster that has affected its collections or its structures. who will answer basic questions and gather preliminary information. The assistance is provided by AIC-CERT (American Institute for Requests for onsite assistance will be forwarded by the volunteer to the Conservation Collections Emergency Response Team). The mission AIC-CERT Coordinator and Project Director for response. of AIC-CERT is to respond to the needs of cultural institutions during emergencies and disasters through coordinated efforts with first respond- For more information you can reach Jon Brandon at 207-721-0088 ers, state agencies, vendors and the public. In 2007, the Foundation of or [email protected]. Jon is the owner of East Point the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works Conservation Studio located in Brunswick, Maine. • (FAIC) received funding from the Institute for Museum and Library Services to develop advanced workshops to train conservators and other library and museum professionals. These workshops have produced a Aftermath of group of 107 “rapid responders” who are trained to react to disaster. The a fire showing group provides assistance by phone and email to collecting institutions heat and soot affected by everything from leaking pipes to roof damage. Response damage. The teams are deployed to larger scale disasters. AIC-CERT has deployed room contents experts to assist with major floods in the Midwest and Hurricane Ike, are water-soaked both in 2008, and to other events. as a result of Disasters can strike anywhere at anytime, and they can pose threats to firemen hosing public health and safety, to infrastructure, and to Americans’ cultural down the room. heritage. From hurricanes and earthquakes to fires and leaking sprinkler systems, collecting institutions need to have disaster plans in place,

Send news directly to MAM Newsletter Editor • [email protected]