Bangor Museum and Center For History
25 Broad Street Bangor, ME 04401 Phone: 207-942-1900
Open: Under renovation; reopening to the public in June 2008
The museum focuses on the history of Bangor and the surrounding area.
Maine's historic homes, museums, forts add intrigue to this coastal state
Maine's many historic homes, forts, museums, and Native American locales describe the varied history of this French Quebec-influenced state and its tough economic history. The Ashland Logging Museum, Lumberman's Museum in Patten, and Maine Forest and Logging Museum in Bradley among others describe this dangerous native industry from the early days to the present. Maine's French-Acadian heritage is preserved at the Acadian Historic Village in Van Buren. Homes of ships' captains illustrate the state's seafaring history. And these examples only scratch the surface. See more below, in every region.
| Acadia/Bar Harbor/Down East | Aroostook | Augusta/Kennebec |
| Greater Portland & Casco Bay | Maine Highlands | Mid Coast |
| South Coast | Western Lakes/Mountains |
Burnham Tavern Museum
Route 192 Machias, ME 04654 Phone: 207-255-4432
Open: Mid-June through early September, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; other times by appointment
Built in 1770, this tavern was a rendezvous point for local patriots during the American Revolution. Exhibits focus on the history of the area through the 18th and 19th centuries. The Tavern is a fine example of the design and technology of the time and is furnished much as it was it was when America was in its infancy.
Cole Land Transportation Museum
405 Perry Road Bangor, ME 04401 Phone: 207-990-3600
Open: May 1-November 11, daily, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Exhibits feature antique vehicles, including a display of military cars and trucks. There is also a covered bridge on the premises. Cost: Adults, $6; seniors age 62 and older, $4; children under age 19, free
Colonel Black Mansion
81 West Main Street Ellsworth, ME Phone: 207-667-8671
This 19th century home features displays of antique furniture and household items.
Downtown Ellsworth
Begin at Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce, High St. Ellsworth, ME Phone: 207-667-5584
Several of Ellsworth's downtown buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At the Chamber of Commerce, visitors can get a guide and map to the structures.
Eastport Historic District
Eastport, ME Phone: 207-853-4644
Visitors to Eastport will enjoy walking past the dozens of 18th and 19th century structures, including many restored sea captains' homes.
First Congregational Church
Corner Church and State streets Ellsworth, ME Phone: 207-667-8321
One of Maine's most photogenic churches, visitors will enjoy this stunning example of early 19th century, Greek Revival architecture.
Fort O'Brien
Route 92 Machiasport, ME Phone: 207-941-4014
Completed in 1775, the remains of this fort overlooks the site of the Revolutionary War's first naval battle.
Historic Town of Castine
Castine, ME Phone: 207-326-8786
In the 17th century, the pilgrims established a trading post at Castine, which they managed from hundreds of miles away in Massachusetts. Though small, the town was considered so strategically important, that it changed possessors from French, Dutch, British, and Colonials in the time leading up to the American Revolution. Visitors to Castine will enjoy a bevvy of historic treats, including 100 historic spots in Castine, ruins of several forts, and homes that date back to the 18th century.
Maine Forest and Logging Museum
Government Road Bradley, ME 04411 Phone: 207-581-2871
Open: Grounds open year-round; special events held in summer
The museum is dedicated to keeping alive the forest history of long ago for the present day citizens of Maine. The centerpiece of the museum is Leonard's Mills, a reconstructed logging and mill community of the 1790s. Programs feature volunteers in period dress demonstrating traditional skills and crafts. Events include living history days and summer programs. Group tours can be scheduled. Cost: Fee charged only for special events.
Paul Bunyon Monument
Main Street at Bass Park Bangor, ME
Pays homage to lumbering's legendary hero.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
Route 774, Campobello Island Lubec, ME Phone: 506-752-2922
Accessible by a bridge from the mainland, this was originally the summer home for President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Now a 2,600-acre park, visitors can see the home or hike on more than eight miles of trails.
Ruggles House
Columbia Falls, ME Phone: 207-483-4637
A Federal style small mansion built in 1818, this historic home features fascinating woodcarvings, period furniture, and a very rare flying staircase. Open June 1-Oct. 15. A fee is charged.
St. Croix Island
Calais, ME
This island settlement was founded in 1604. It is also known as the International Historic Site, due to its proximity to New Brunswick in Canada.
The Barracks Museum
Washington Street Eastport, ME 04631 Phone: 207-853-6630
Open: Late June-September, Tuesday-Saturday, 1-4 p.m.
Eastport was a prominent town during the Colonial era, and an overview of the town's history since then is chronicled at this museum.
The Veazie Railroad
Veazie, ME
Built in 1836, this was the first railroad in Maine, and it ran on wooden rails. Although no longer in existence, visitors will find remnants of the tracks in many places throughout town.
Acadian Historic Village
Route 1 Van Buren, ME
Maine's French-Acadian heritage is preserved in this group of over one dozen restored structures, gathered from throughout the region. Exhibits supply visitors with information on the Acadian culture, history and way of life in Colonial and post-Colonial Maine.
Ashland Logging Museum
Garfield Road Ashland, ME 04732 Phone: 207-435-6679
Open: By appointment
Chronicles the history of logging and the lumber industry in Northern Maine. Exhibits feature demonstrative panels and antique logging tools.
Caribou Historical Museum
US 1 Caribou, ME 04736 Phone: 207-498-2556
Open: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Visitors to this museum will find a wealth of information on the history of Caribou and its people. Cost: Admission is free; donations are accepted.
Downtown Houlton
Houlton, ME
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this business center features many 19th century structures, giving an insight into the lumber industry and trading that went on more than a century ago.
Fort Kent Blockhouse
Off Route 1 Fort Kent, ME Phone: 207-941-4014
Built in 1839, this small, fortified structure was designed to protect local timber companies during a dispute with Canada. The argument was settled before any violent skirmishes developed.
Nylander Musuem
657 Main Street Caribou, ME 04736 Phone: 207-493-4209
The Nylander Museum is dedicated to the work of Olof Nylander and the natural history of Maine. Exhibits include: minerals, fossils, seashells, mollusk shells, mounted mammals, and birds from the region. The museum offers free guided nature walks during the summer and provides educational outreach programs to local schools throughout the year. Admission is free.
Rosie O'Grady Balloon of Peace Monument
Route 164 Caribou, ME
This monument commemorates Caribou's contribution to flight history. The first solo balloon flight across the Atlantic Ocean began here. Open year-round. No admission charge.
Thomas Heritage House
444 Main St. Caribou, ME Phone: 207-496-3011
Originally the home of 19th century settler Perez Thomas, the house has been restored and features furniture and household items dating from the 1880s. Open by appointment. No admission, but donations accepted.
Abnaki Statue
Skowhegan, ME
This monument, by Bernard Langlais, is a 62 foot sculpture honoring the Abnaki Indian tribe.
Blaine House
Augusta, ME
Used as the Governor's mansion, this home was given to the state in 1919, although it was constructed much earlier. Tours are available for visitors.
Bryant Stove and Music Museum
27 Stovepipe Alley Thorndike, ME 04986 Phone: 207-568-3665
Open: Monday-Saturday, 8a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Exhibits display examples and the historic of stoves, as well as antique music, instruments and phonographs.
Caratunk Falls
Caratunk, ME
These beautiful falls are home to an amazing historic find: Indian relics and petroglyphs that date back as far as 9000 years ago.
Fort Halifax
Winslow, ME
Set on the Sebasticook River, this fort was built in 1754 as part of a series of defenses constructed during the French and Indian War. In 1775, the army commanded by Benedict Arnold stopped at the fort on its way to Quebec.
Fort WesternAugusta
Augusta, ME
Built in 1754, this historic fort is set on the eastern bank of the Kennebec River. It was originally built as protection for the area's Indians.
Maine Military Historical Society Museum
Camp Keyes, Winthrop Street Augusta, ME 04333 Phone: 207-626-4338
Open: By appointment
Focus on military history, and the contributions of the state and its residents to America's military involvements over the centuries.
Maine State House
Augusta, ME
Visitors may tour the seat of Maine's state government. Of particular interest is the Hall of Flags.
Redington Museum and Apothecary
62 Silver Street Waterville, ME 04901 Phone: 207-872-9439
Open: Memorial Day week to Labor Day
The building housing this museum was built in 1814. Museum offers a local historical collection
of furniture, Civil War and Indian relics, children’s room, period rooms, and a 19th-century apothecary. Cost: Adults, $3; children under age 12, $2.
Waterville - Winslow Two Cent Bridge
Waterville, ME
One of the last toll footbridge's in the country, this bridge crosses from Waterville into Winslow. At one time, employees of a paper mill in Winslow used the bridge to walk to work. This is constructed as a free-swinging bridge.
Wire Suspension Bridge
New Portland, ME
On of the earliest of it's kind in the eastern U.S., this suspension bridge was built in the mid 19th century.
Wyman Dam
Moscow, ME
Built in the 1920's as a hydro-electric source for power, the dam altered the surrounding landscape. The Kennebec River is now 135 feet higher and an artificial lake now exists, which stores water at the head of the River.
Old Port Exchange
Portland, ME
Known as the "Old Port," this section of Portland features restored waterfront buildings that now are home to shops and restaurants.
Tate House
Portland, ME
Historic home features 19th century furniture and household items.
Victoria Mansion
109 Danforth Street Portland, ME Phone: 207-772-4841
Also known as the Morse-Libby House, this mansion was built in 1858. Visitors can see 19th century household items and furniture.
Wadsworth-Longfellow House
485-489 Congress Street Portland, ME 04101 Phone: 207-774-1822
Open: May 1-October 31, Monday-Saturday, 10-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p,m,
This historic home doubles as a museum and headquarters for the Maine historical society. This was the home of three generations of one remarkable family that made significant contributions to the political, literary, and cultural life of New England and the United States. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807–1882), grew up in the house and went on to become one of the most famous men of his time. The gallery of exhibits focuses on the state's history in the 18th and 19th centuries. Cost: Adults, $7; seniors and students, $6; children, $3.
Blacksmith Shop Museum
98 Dawes Road Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426 Phone: 207-564-8618
Open: May-October, usually daily
The museum building was built in 1863 by Nicholas A. Chandler, who bred and trained horses. The little shop proved popular with local farmers and was kept busy during the Civil War. Eventually, Chandler's sister inherited the shop, which was then operated by her husband, Henry Parsons, until 1905. The museum retains much of its original equipment including forge, ox-lifter, anvil and other tools. In addition, the museum has a collection of agricultural and rural tools. Cost: Admission by donation.
Lumberman's Museum
Waters Road Patten, ME 04765 Phone: 207-528-2650
Open: Memorial Day–June 30, Friday – Sunday; July 1-August 31, Tuesday-Sunday; September1-Columbus Day, Friday-Sunday, daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
The museum documents Maine logging history by preserving the logging heritage and accomplishments of early inhabitants of the state of Maine. Exhibits include some of Maine's most notable contributions to the early mechanization of logging, including the Lombard Steam Hauler, Lombard Gas Hauler, and the Peavey Cant Dog. Cost: Adults (over age 12), $7; seniors, $6; children at 6-11, $2.
Moosehead Marine Museum, aboard the S.S. Katahdin,
Lily Bay State Park, 12 Lily Bay Rd Greenville, ME 04441 Phone: 207-695-2716
Open: June 30-October 7, daily cruises except September 12-25, cruises on weekends and Tuesdays only; call for cruise schedule
An authentic steam ship, the Katahdin, is the setting for exhibits and artifacts of the area's logging and steamboat industry. In addition to the Katahdin, the museum has an extensive collection of steamboat memorabilia and early photographs of the Moosehead area. Cruises on the Katahdin offered seasonally. Cost: ticket prices varies by passenger age and length of cruise.
Castle Tucker
2 Lee Street Wiscasset, ME Phone: 207-882-7169
Open June 1-October 15, Wednesday-Sunday; tours every half hour, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
In 1858, Captain Richard H. Tucker Jr., son of a wealthy shipping family, bought this mansion with its commanding view of the Sheepscot River for his bride. He purchased a houseful of furniture from Boston, updated the interiors, and added a three-story piazza overlooking the river. Today, Castle Tucker stands as a record of late Victorian life in one of Maine’s most beautiful villages.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Chapman-Hall House
Damariscotta, ME
One of the oldest homes in Damariscotta, constructed in 1754.
Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center
16 Museum Street Rockland, ME 04841 Phone: 207-596-6457
Open: Memorial Day-Columbus Day, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Columbus Day-Memorial Day, Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Mondays ; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day
The Farnsworth Art Museum offers art from 18th- and 19th-century masters Gilbert Stuart, Thomas Sully, Thomas Eakins, Eastman Johnson, Fitz Hugh Lane, Frank Benson, Childe Hassam, and Maurice Prendergast as well as works by 20th-century sculptor Louise Nevelson. It has opened four new galleries to showcase contemporary art. Its Wyeth Center features works of Andrew, N.C., and Jamie Wyeth. Two historic buildings--the Farnsworth Homestead and the Olson House--complete the museum complex. The Farnsworth Homestead, adjacent to the main museum in Rockland, is distinguished by its Greek-revival exterior and Victorian interior. Painter Andrew Wyeth created many of his best-loved works at the Olson House. The house is 14.5 miles from the museum in Cushing, Maine. Cost: adults, $10; seniors, students age 18 and older, $8; children age 17 and younger, free; ticket price includes admission to the Olson House and the Farnsworth Victorian Homestead when open.
Fort Knox State Park
Stockton Springs, ME Phone: 207-469-7719
This historic fort is most interesting for its underground passages, in addition to the stonework using granite from nearby Mount Waldo. The fort was built on the narrows of the Penobscot River to protect the river valley from naval attack, but never saw battle. Open May 1-Oct. 30. a fee is charged.
Glidden House
Newcastle, ME
Built in 1752, this structure is one of the oldest in Newcastle and a fine example of Maine colonial architecture.
Harriet Beecher Stowe House
Brunswick, ME
Stowe stayed in this home at the time she was writing Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Joshua Chamberlain House
Brunswick, ME
Originally the home of the famous Civil War general Joshua Chamberlain, exhibits now feature the general, his family history, life and experiences during the war.
Kavanaugh Mansion
Newcastle, ME
This mansion, built in 1800, was home to Edward Kavanaugh who served as Governor of Maine in the mid 19th century.
Lincoln Academy
Newcastle, ME
The first private academy in Maine, Lincoln Academy was founded in 1804 by Reverend Kiah Bailey.
Luther Little and the Vesper
Wiscasset, ME
These two wrecks foundered along the banks of the Sheepscot River in 1932. Both were four-masted schooners, built during World War I and were used as cargo ships.
Maine Maritime Museum
243 Washington St. Bath, ME 04530 Phone: 207-443-1316
Open: Daily, 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Days
From the beginning of the Civil War to the turn of the century, Bath was the one of the nation's most important seaports and ship-building cities. The Maine Maritime Museum tells the story of Maine’s ship and boat building history with multiple rooms of exhibits, all contained beside a 19th century shipyard on the Kennebec River. Cost: Adults, $10; seniors, $9; children under age 17, $7; same household, $30. Admission is good for two consecutive days’ attendance
Montpelier
Thomaston, ME
A replica of the home of General Henry Knox, President George Washington's Secretary of War. Visitors will see a complete reconstruction of this home in its 18th century splendor.
Nicholas Codd House
Damariscotta, ME
Historic home built in 1800.
Nickels-Sortwell House
121 Main Street Wiscasset, ME Phone: 207-882-7169
Open: June 1-October 15, Friday-Sunday; tours every half hour, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
This house recalls Wiscasset’s golden age, when wealth from shipbuilding and maritime trade built elegant mansions. After serving as a hotel during most of the 19th century, the house was restored by the Sortwell family, who purchased it in 1899. From the 1930s, Frances Sortwell carried on the family tradition of philanthropy and was one of Wiscasset’s most dynamic preservationists.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Olson House
Cushing, ME
This famous home was used by artist Andrew Wyeth in his most famous painting, "Christina's World."
Owls Head Transportation Museum
Knox County Airport, Route 73 Owl's Head, ME 04754 Phone: 207-594-4418
Open: November- March, daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; April- October, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Visitors will enjoy exhibits featuring a collection of early air and ground vehicles. Trace the history of the bicycle and the horse-drawn carriage. Many of the vehicles are in operating condition and are demonstrated on the museum grounds. Cost: Persons over age 12, $7; seniors age 65 and older, $6; children age 5- 11, $5; family, $18.
Oyster Shell Piles
Damariscotta, ME
Oysters were used as food for centuries by the Native American population in the area. During this time, they would pile the used shells into heaps, some of which now reach 30 feet high.
Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum
Hubbard Hall, Bowdoin College Brunswick, ME 04011 Phone: 207-725-3416
Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 2-5 p.m.; closed Mondays and national holidays
The museum collections include Arctic exploration gear, natural history specimens, and art and anthropological material, produced primarily by the Inuit cultures of Labrador and Greenland. The museum also has large holdings of historic and anthropological photographs and film.
Penobscot Marine Museum
5 Church Street Searsport, ME 04974 Phone: 207-548-2529
Open: May through October, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
The principal exhibits at this museum focus on the industry of Penobscot Bay in the 19th century and illustrate what it was like to live and work on one of the great square-rigged ships in the last quarter of the 19th century, and to visit China when it truly was exotic. The museum is also known for its collection of fine 19th-century marine art, featuring one of the largest collections of Thomas and James Buttersworth paintings and several by Robert Salmon. Scrimshaw, figureheads, and art and artifacts date from the Great Age of Sail. Cost: Adults, $8; children age 7-15, $3; family, $18
Skolfield-Whittier House
161 Park Row Brunswick, ME 04011 Phone: 207-729-6606
Open: Seasonally; call ahead for days and hours
A time-capsule like home of three generations of a prominent Brunswick family with careers in seafaring, medicine and education. Among the former residents are Alfred Skolfield, a sea captain, Dr. Alice A.S. Whittier, Maine's first female pediatrician, and Dr. Frank Whittier, an early forensic pathologist. Closed for 60 years, the house remains exactly as it was in 1925 when it was last occupied. It has collections complete to the receipts used in the house's construction and spices in the kitchen spice racks. Its 17 rooms provide a glimpse into 19-century upper-middle-class life in Maine. Guided tours. Cost: Adults, $5; children, $2.50
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church
Newcastle, ME
This Episcopal Church was the first designed by reknowned architect Henry Vaughn, who later designed the National Cathedral in Washington, DC.
St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church
Newcastle, ME
The first Catholic church in the United States built north of Boston.
Vinalhaven Historical Society Museum
P.O. Box 339 Vinalhaven, ME 04863 Phone: 207-863-4410
Open: June 8-September 18, Wednesday- Sunday, 11 a.m. –3 p.m.; open Tuesdays in July and August; other times and dates by appointment
The colorful history of the Midcoast Islands and the town of Vinalhaven in particular are the focus of this museum.
Waterfront Heritage Park
Belfast, ME
This historic collection of buildings and shops sits on the water, giving visitors a look at the New England coastal town of the 19th century.
Brick Store Museum
117 Main Street Kennebunk, ME 04043 Phone: 207-985-4802
Open: Year round, Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. -1 p.m.; closed all national holidays, the day after Thanksgiving, and few days between Christmas and New Year.
Exhibits and collections include Artifacts and papers pertaining to the maritime heritage of the Kennebunks and items from the estates of renowned authors, Kenneth Roberts and Booth Tarkington. Highlights include quilts with secret pouches and handwritten inscriptions; a rare chest dating to 1685; a painting found floating at sea of a Kennebunkport ship captain; pieces salvaged from area shipwrecks; a Civil War drum for a real surprise; and the largest collection of World War I and II posters in Maine. Cost: Suggested donation of $3.
Fifth Maine Regiment Museum
45 Seashore Ave Peak's Island, ME 04108 Phone: 207-766-3330
Open: Memorial Day-July 1, weekends, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; July 1-Labor Day, week-days, 1 to 5 p.m. and weekends, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Labor Day-Columbus Day, weekends, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Exhibits commemorate the Civil War, and in particular the contribution of Maine citizens to the war effort. Cost: Suggested donation of $5 per person.
First Church
Wells, ME
This historic church was complete in the mid 18th century.
Fort McClary
Kittery, ME Phone: 207-384-5160
Built in 1690, this Colonial fort takes visitors back to the beginnings of coastal Maine's strong maritime background. Hiking trails are also a part of this state historic site, in addition to a picnic area. Open Memorial Day-Sept. 30. A fee is charged.
Hamilton House
40 Vaughan’s Lane South Berwick, ME Phone: 207-384-2454
Open: June 1-October 15, Wednesday-Sunday. Tours on the hour, 11 am-4 p.m.
A century ago, Emily Tyson and her stepdaughter, Elise, came upon this mansion on a bluff overlooking the Salmon Falls River. Its beauty cast a spell on them and the two women dedicated themselves to its restoration. Inspired by the Colonial Revival movement, they strove to create a vision of a glorious past, with painted murals, antiques, hooked rugs, and country furnishings. The extensive formal garden and pergola have been partially restored.
Admission: $8; seniors, $7; students and children, $4.
Admission: $8; seniors, $7; students and children, $4.
Hussey Seating Company
North Berwick, ME
This company was a major manufacturer in the area during the 19th century. They build farm plows, and the original plant is still standing. Visitors there can see a variety of plows dating back to when the factory first opened.
Peaks Island Batteries
Peaks Island, ME
Installed during World War II and designed to defend the Portland area (with its Naval base) from potential attack.
Perkins Cove Drawbridge
Ogunquit, ME
The only foot drawbridge in New England, and one of the few in the country.
Sarah Orne Jewett House
5 Portland Street South Berwick, ME Phone: 207-384-2454
Open: June 1-October 15, Friday-Sunday. Tours on the hour, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Writer Sarah Orne Jewett (1849-1909) chronicled the lives of the country people of coastal Maine in books like The Country of the Pointed Firs. She spent much of her life in this stately Georgian residence. Jewett and her sister decorated the house as an eclectic blend of family furnishings from various eras, set off by the imposing 18th-century interior.
Admission: $5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Admission: $5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Sayward-Wheeler House
9 Barrell Lane Extension York Harbor, ME Phone: 207-384-2454
Open seasonally. Visit HistoricNewEngland.org for hours and admission.
This house, overlooking a once-bustling waterfront, was the home of prosperous merchant, judge, and leading citizen Jonathan The house was updated as a summer residence in the early 20th century, but in the parlor, the original furnishings and family portraits remain in place, creating a time capsule of the Colonial era.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
The Wreck of the Helen Eliza
Peaks Island, ME
The Helen Eliza foundered on the rocks off the southern end of Peaks Island in 1869. The view of the wreck site inspired Longfellow to write Wreck of the Hesperus.
York's Historic District
Route 1A York Village, ME Phone: 207-363-4974
York was the first officially chartered city in America, made a Royal Colony in 1641. Now an outdoor historic site, visitors will see several colonial structures, including the Elizabeth Perkins House (built in 1730), the Emerson Wilcox House (built in 1742), the Jefferds Tavern (built in 1750), the John Hancock Wharf (built in 1800), the Old Gaol (built in 1720), and the One Room Schoolhouse (built in 1745). Maintained by the Old York Historical Society, most of the structures are open for visitors and contain exhibits and authentic colonial artifacts.
Bates College
Lewiston, ME
Founded in 1855, Bates College has the distinction of being the first coeducational college in the eastern United States.
Bethel Village
Bethel, ME
This picture-postcard village has charmed visitors for over 100 years. Originally founded in the late 17th century, the town features many 18th and 19th century homes and shops. The ambiance is that of a traditional New England town, so much so that Bethel has even been featured on Hallmark card.
Bridgton Historical Society Museum
2 Lingalls Road Bridgton, ME 04009 Phone: 207-647-3699
Open: Late fall-early winter, Tuesdays and Saturdays, 1-4 p.m., weather permitting
The former fire station on Gibbs Avenue (built in 1878) in downtown Bridgton houses the Bridgton Historical Society's Museum collections, archives, and research facilities. Special exhibits change each summer, and programs on Bridgton history and related topics are held throughout the year. Topics of exhibits include the narrow-gauge railroad, the Civil War, and more.
Cumberland and Oxford Canal
Windham, ME
Over a century ago, the Cumberland and Oxford Canal was the busiest in the state of Maine. Remains of the canal can be seen in several places in Windham.
Dr. Moses Mason House
Broad and Mason Bethel, ME 04217 Phone: 207-824-2908
Open: Guided tours, July 1- Labor Day, Tuesday- Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; September- June, by appointment
Built in 1813, this home is now a museum featuring changing and permanent exhibits, as well as a theater. Historic films and lectures are scheduled there year-round. The museum also houses historic archives and is home to the Bethel Historical Society. Cost: Adults, $3; children age 6-12, $1.50.
Fryeburg Academy
Fryeburg, ME
This historic school was founded in 1791, and is one of the oldest, continuously operating preparatory schools in the country.
Hebron Academy
Route 119 Hebron, ME Phone: 207-966-2100
This historic prep school was founded in 1804.
Historic District
New Gloucester, ME
Explore this quaint village and its 18th and 19th century structures.
Indian Burial Ground
Windham, ME
Native Americans inhabited the area for centuries before colonists from Europe arrived. This burial ground is an example of a now vanished culture.
Marrett House
40 Ossipee Trail East, Route 25 Standish, ME Phone: 207-882-7169
Open seasonally. Visit HistoricNewEngland.org for hours and admission.
In 1796, Daniel Marrett moved to Standish, Maine, with his wife to assume the post of town minister. He purchased the most imposing house in town to reflect his status as the community’s leading citizen. Each room showcases treasured possessions, including pewter, ceramics, and textiles from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Marrett House is a classic example of the “big house, little house, back house, barn” configuration. A 20th-century perennial garden is located beside the house.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Admission:$5; seniors, $4; students and children, $2.50.
Muskie Archives
Bates College Lewiston, ME
This small library houses papers of and an exhibit about the late U.S. Senator Edmund Muskie. Muskie also served as Maine Governor, U.S. Secretary of State, and was an alumnus of Bates College.
Naples Historical Society Museum
Route 302 Village Green Naples, ME 04055 Phone: 207-693-6879
OPne: July-August, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Exhibits focus on the area's history, particularly the use of the C & O Canal and the steamboats which were a mode of transportation on Sebago and Long Lakes over a century ago.
Norlands Living History Center
Route 4 Livermore, ME Phone: 207-897-4366
A former farm, now comprised of a barn, victorian mansion, library and one-room schoolhouse. All give visitors a window into life in the 19th century. Programs are scheduled there throughout the year.
Parson Smith House
Windham, ME
Historic home features 18th and 19th century household items and furniture.
Shaker Society
New Gloucester, ME
Originally founded in 1793, the society is now a wellspring of Shaker history and cultural information.
Washburn-Norlands Living History Center
290 Norlands Rd. Livermore, ME 04253 Phone: 207-897-4366
Open: July 1-Labor Day, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon- 6 p.m.; September 4-October 7, Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon- 6 p.m.; October 8-June 30, weekdays, 2:30-4 p.m. or by appointment.
The Norlands Living History Center helps rural 19th century New England come to life. The center has six buildings depicting a crossroads community. There is a one-room schoolhouse, stone library, church and grand mansion built in 1867. Toys, clothing and personal items appear to tell the story of every day life in the Washburn Mansion. Norlands was the family home of the Washburns, one of the great American political dynasties. The 445-acre site, with five historic buildings, offers hands-on living history experiences in 19th century rural life for all ages. Cost: Tours, adults, $5.50; students, $2.
Willowbrook Museum
70 Elm Street Newfield, ME 04056 Phone: 207-793-2784
Open: Thursday through Monday, Memorial Day weekend through October, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Two historic houses and their barns, a reproduction schoolhouse and bandstand, and a millpond grace this restored country village. Exhibits include horse-drawn sleighs and carriages, an 1849 Concord stagecoach, a 1894 carousel, gas engines, and various trades shops — blacksmith, broom maker, canoe builder, cooper, cobbler, harness maker, printer, wheelwright, woodworker. Plan to spend about three hours. Picnicking welcome. Cost: Adults, $9; seniors age 65 and older, $7.50; students age 6-18, $4. Visit willowbrookmuseum.org.