Presentation Reminder...

Don't Forget!!!

June 22, 2013

1:00 pm
at History  House

Learn about the role of Maine women in the Civil War. 

Presented by author and historian,

Lynda Sudlow   

New Exhibit Opens at History House!

   On Saturday, June 1, 2013 the historical society will open its new exhibit - Our Old Curiosities.  We've rummaged through closets and attic to bring out our most interesting objects, many of which have never been exhibited before.

   From a coconut mailed to a resident in Kezar Falls in the 19th century to the jaws (complete with three rows of teeth!) of a shark, there is something in this exhibit for the whole family.  You will be both amused and puzzled at this collection of diverse artifacts.

Exhibit Opening Hours

1 - 4 pm

   So after you visit the Lilac Festival, head on over to History House and prepare to be delighted!

  

All for the Union: the Role of Women in the CIvil War- presentation at History House

   In our on-going effort to commemorate Maine's participation in the Civil War, the Parsonsfield-Porter Historical Society will host a presentation by author Lynda Sudlow in which she will discuss the Maine women who served the Union in the war.

If you thought the Civil War was fought only by men, think again!  Nurse, agent, soldier, spy  -- to say nothing of all the home front efforts -- women played many critical roles during the war. Our featured speaker, Lyn Sudlow, will be sharing some of their stories with us at our meeting on June 22 as we commemorate the sesquicentennial of the war.  Lyn, author of A Vast Army of Women : Maine's Uncounted Forces in the American Civil War is a researcher, historian, and resident of Parsonsfield.  Books will be available for sale and signing. 

Mark your calendars! 1:00pm on Saturday June 22, 2013.  You won't want to miss this one!

The SIlk Industry in Maine...

   During the years 1825-1845 a mania for all things silk enthralled the nation.  It found a local connection in Hiram, Maine which sought to capitalize on people's fascination for this beautiful fabric.
   Sally Williams of the Hiram Historical Society will present an illustrated talk on this fascinating, albeit short-lived; industry in southern Maine. 
   Nancy Greenleaf will show how silk is made by hand in the villages of India from her travels there.

   Don't miss this fascinating presentation on:

Saturday, May 18, 2013

at the History House in Kezar Falls.

Presentation will follow our short meeting at

1:00 pm.

Our Annual Opening Meeting...

Detail from the Victorian crazy quilt at History House

   On Saturday, April 27 at 1 pm, the historical society will begin its new season.  The meeting will be at the Town Office since we are still cleaning and restoring the meeting room after the new floor was installed last month.

   This meeting needs a quorum as the slate of this years officers needs to be voted on so please try to attend.  Also, we are asking all historical society members to consider volunteering to help in some way this year at History House.  We need our members to help out  if we are to continue to keep the History House open and to provide interesting exhibits.  You can visit the page above to see a list of ways you can help keep our local history alive and well for all to enjoy!

   Consider signing up for updates from this blog to go directly to your inbox so you won't miss any news or changes in schedules.  Just add your email address in the box on the right and submit...couldn't be easier!  Also, check out all the new links that will make planning a day trip this summer so convenient!  For those who love history, Maine has some wonderful places to explore but begin with your very own History House because LOCAL HISTORY MATTERS!

Kezar Falls Village - Part 5

This was the center of the business district in Kezar Falls Village.  The large 3 story building was built by George W. Towle in 1886. Preston J. Stanley and son, Orman, bought the Towle building in 1900 and it became known as the Stanley Block. At that time the post office was located here with P. J. Stanley as postmaster. In 1910 George Towle and Allen Garner started the Kezar Falls National Bank on the first floor of this building.  This picture taken about 1915 shows the Norton Block built about 1910 to replace the old S.P. Fox building and they continued to sell grain and groceries.  Notice the Newbegin Cigar Shop (left) which is located at the end of the bridge.

Meeting schedule for the 2013 season at History House can be

 viewed my clicking on the Meeting Schedule page tab above.

Kezar Falls Village - Part 4

In 1880 George Towle, Elijah Fox and John Devereux saw the manufacturing possibilities on the Ossipee River and knew there was a need for employment in this area.  They built the original woolen mill building shown here and organized the Kezar Falls Woolen Manufacturing Co.  After a difficult start, Allen Garner was engaged in 1881 as an agent to superintend the setting of machinery and to run production.  He eventually owned the mill and the success of the mill was due largely to his shrewd judgment, excellent leadership and untiring efforts.  Local citizens who had made their living from farming left the farms to work here.  The mill became a critical part of the growth of the village and surrounding area.  It expanded and grew reaching its peak in the 1950’s.  It changed hands twice and continued to operate until 2000.  Today the property is owned by the Town of Parsonsfield.