Maine Memory Network

Rum, Riot, and Reform - Taverns, People, and Scenes

"… 1985 A86-886 This quizzical sign came from Samuel Witham's Tavern in Raymond, Maine. Tavern sign, Raymond, ca."

Wired! How Electricity Came to Maine

As early as 1633, entrepreneurs along the Piscataqua River in southern Maine utilized the force of the river to power a sawmill, recognizing the potential of the area's natural power sources, but it was not until the 1890s that technology made widespread electricity a reality -- and even then, consumers had to be urged to use it.

Rum, Riot, and Reform - Business as Usual

"X Bangor House Joseph F. Hatch,1883 Oil on canvas Collections of Bangor Historical Society Maine's grand city hotel is said to have always served…"

Rum, Riot, and Reform - 1865 to 1919: The Drys Gain New Adherents and Leaders

"Dr. Joseph E. Turner of Bath was one of the first medical authorities to describe alcoholism as a disease."

Rum, Riot, and Reform - Drinking: Elegance and Debauchery

"1836 Joseph T. Harris (active 1828-1852) pen on parchment Collections of Maine Historical Society; gift of Philip Isaacson This remarkable cartoon…"

Dressing Up, Standing Out, Fitting In

Adorning oneself to look one's "best" has varied over time, gender, economic class, and by event. Adornments suggest one's sense of identity and one's intent to stand out or fit in.

Home Ties: Sebago During the Civil War

Letters to and from Sebago soldiers who served in the Civil War show concern on both sides about farms and other issues at home as well as concern from the home front about soldiers' well-being.

The Kotzschmar Memorial Organ

A fire and two men whose lives were entwined for more than 50 years resulted in what is now considered to be "the Jewel of Portland" -- the Austin organ that was given to the city of Portland in 1912.

Designing Acadia

For one hundred years, Acadia National Park has captured the American imagination and stood as the most recognizable symbol of Maine’s important natural history and identity. This exhibit highlights Maine Memory content relating to Acadia and Mount Desert Island.