Museums & galleries in Western Lakes/Mountains offer depth to your vacation

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. Please check website for season & hours, tour information & admission.

The Stanley Museum is located in the Georgian-style Stanley School built in 1903. The museum commemorates the heritage of Stanley family and the famous Stanley Steamer automobile, which was invented by Francis Edgar Stanley and manufactured by him and his twin brother. They are often called the the Stanley twins, F.E. and F.O. Their sister is remembered for her photographs depicting rural American life in about 1900 in Maine. Visitors to the Stanley Museum see the steam cars, and an exhibit that demonstrates the power plant of the Stanley steam car. Also on display is a Mason Regulator engine on exhibit, which is used in the first Stanley cars. Check website for hours and admission.

This museum preserves the history of the paper industry in Maine and in particular the cultural heritage of the towns and mills along the Androscoggin River. Through its interactive exhibits, visitors may experience life in a paper-making community. Check website for season & hours.