Upcoming event:

Book Discussion: My Dear Hamilton
Saturday, May 9, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Rumford Public Library
56 Rumford Ave, Rumford, ME 04276

Hello readers!

Our next book discussion in the Independence 250 series will take place on Saturday, May 9, at 2:00 pm at the Rumford Public Library. We will be discussing My Dear Hamilton: A Novel of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie.

My Dear Hamilton is a fictional, but carefully-researched, interpretation of the life of Eliza Schuyler Hamilton, wife of Founding Father and Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton. Eliza was a revolutionary woman who, like her new nation, struggled to define herself in the wake of war, betrayal, and tragedy. Authors Dray and Kamoie used thousands of letters and original sources to tell Eliza’s story as it’s never been told before—not just as the wronged wife at the center of a political sex scandal—but also as a founding mother who shaped an American legacy in her own right.

“Revolutionary Books” Discussion Series

This is the third in a series of five book discussions that will take place in libraries around western Maine this year. You can learn about the whole series here.

You do not need to have attended the previous discussion to attend this one, and please feel free to come and participate even if you aren’t able to read the book before the event.

Need a Copy?

If you need a copy of the book, they are for sale at the Rumford Public Library and Museums of the Bethel Historical Society at a reduced rate of just $10. The museum shop is currently open by appointment—just call (207-824-2908) or email (info@bethelhistorical.org)!

You can also borrow the book from the Bethel Library (as of this writing, the library’s copy is still available!) or grab a copy of the audio book on Audible!

Upcoming event:

Along the Andro: History and Habitat in Our Community
A free walking conversation led by the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society and Mahoosuc Land Trust
Saturday, May 2, 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Davis Park, Bethel, ME 04217

Happy Saturday! We hope all of our readers in the Bethel area had a chance to get out and enjoy the beautiful summer weather yesterday! While next week looks cooler, May is just around the corner and that means its almost time for one our favorite annual events. Jane’s Walk is a global festival of free, volunteer-led walking conversations inspired by community activist Jane Jacobs. Nearly 70 walks are happening just in the state of Maine!

This is our third year of participating in this great event, and this year we are excited to be partnering with our friends at the Mahoosuc Land Trust to lead “Along the Andro: History and Habitat in Our Community,” a walk along the Androscoggin River on the Bethel Pathway!

We will begin at noon at Davis Park and conclude at the Valentine Farm Conservation Center. Along the route we will be exploring the history and ecology of the Androscoggin River, including indigenous people, the importance of the river to agriculture and early industries, the pollution of the river and subsequent efforts to clean it up, river ferries, bridges, floods, and the flora and fauna of the riverside. Participation and discussion is encouraged and we especially welcome the sharing of memories from when the river was more contaminated than it is today.

Green Up Day

Our walk is timed to immediately follow Green Up Day, a volunteer roadside cleanup event. If you are interested in participating in Green Up, meet at Davis Park at 9:00 am and wear glove and a safety vest if you have one. Lunch will be provided for all Green Up volunteers at 11:30, and the walk will follow.

If you just want to come for the walk, that’s fine too! Just plan to arrive at Davis Park a few minutes before noon.

Upcoming event:

“The Last, Best Hope: The 250 Year Struggle for the American Experiment in a Divided Federation” with Colin Woodard
March 21, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Bingham Auditorium, Gould Academy
39 Church Street, Bethel, ME 04217
Presentation & Signing: FREE!
Special Reception Tickets: 250bethel.org/woodard

Tomorrow is the day! Acclaimed Maine author Colin Woodard will be at Bingham Auditorium at Gould Academy on Saturday, March 21, at 2:00 pm, to discuss his work on regional cultures in United States history!

The presentation and signing are FREE to all!

Woodard will be discussing the thesis first put forward in his award-winning book, American Nations: that there’s never been one America but rather several Americas, each with its own, centuries-old ideals, values, and religious and cultural heritage. Thrown together in an accident of history, these regional cultures have fought over the meaning and purpose of the U.S. federation, testing Americans’ commitment to securing the natural rights ideals in the Declaration of Independence.

Since American Nations first appeared in 2011, Woodard has continued to develop this theme in later books such as American Character (2016), Union (2020), and Nations Apart (2025). His presentation will focus on the implications of his research for the United States today, in the 250th year of American independence.

Special Author Reception!

Following the presentation and signing the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society will also be hosting a special reception with the author as a fundraiser for the Independence 250 program series.

Reserve Tickets Now!

The reception will also offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society. We’ll be offering light refreshments, behind-the-scenes tours with the Executive Director, and a preview of our upcoming exhibits. Tickets to the reception are $20 for Museums of the Bethel Historical Society members and $25 for non-members.

Just a few spaces remain, so please reserve your reception tickets as soon as possible to guarantee your spot!

Upcoming event:

Book Discussion: Angelica
Saturday, March 28, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Norway Memorial Library
258 Main Street, Norway, ME 04268

Hello readers!

We would like to invite everyone to join us at the Norway Memorial Library on Saturday, March 28 at 2:00 pm, for the second installment in our “Revolutionary Books” discussion series! We’ll be discussing the book Angelica by Molly Beer, an engaging biography of socialite Angelica Schuyler Church.

Angelica is described in many historical narratives as Alexander Hamilton’s “saucy” sister-in-law, and is best known to modern audiences as a supporting character in the broadway sensation Hamilton. As you’ll learn from the book, the real Angelica was a thoroughly interesting and impressive historical figure. Smart, politically astute, well-read, and deeply connected on both sides of the Atlantic, Angelica moved through circles that included some of the most powerful figures of her time. Her transatlantic life, sharp wit, and intellectual partnerships reveal just how influential women could be—even when history tried to sideline them.

“Revolutionary Books” Discussion Series

This is the second in a series of five book discussions that will take place in libraries around western Maine this year. You can learn about the whole series here.

You do not need to have attended the previous discussion to attend this one, and please feel free to come and participate even if you aren’t able to read the book before the event.

Need a Copy?

If you need a copy of the book, they are for sale at the Norway Memorial Library and Museums of the Bethel Historical Society at a reduced rate of just $10. The museum shop is currently open from 1:00 to 3:00, Tuesday to Friday, but just call (207-824-2908) or email (info@bethelhistorical.org) if you need to arrange a different time for pickup!

You can also borrow the book from the Bethel Library or grab a copy of the audio book on Audible!

Upcoming event:

“The Last, Best Hope: The 250 Year Struggle for the American Experiment in a Divided Federation” with Colin Woodard
March 21, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Bingham Auditorium, Gould Academy
39 Church Street, Bethel, ME 04217
Presentation & Signing: FREE!
Special Reception Tickets: 250bethel.org/woodard

We are now less than two weeks away from welcoming celebrated Maine author Colin Woodard to Bethel! We hope you are as excited as we are!

As a reminder, the presentation and book signing will take place at Bingham Auditorium at Gould Academy on Saturday, March 21, at 2:00 pm, and will be FREE to all!

(Please note that while previous communications stated that advanced registration was required for the talk and signing, we have moved the event to a larger space and this is no longer the case. Registration is required only for the special reception.)

Special Reception to Follow!

For those interested in continuing the conversation in a more intimate setting, following the presentation the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society will be hosting a special reception with the author as a fundraiser for the Independence 250 program series.

Reserve Tickets Now!

The reception will also offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society. We’ll be offering light refreshments, behind-the-scenes tours with the Executive Director, and a preview of our upcoming exhibits. Tickets to the reception are $20 for Museums of the Bethel Historical Society members and $25 for non-members.

The reception is capped at 50 people and about half of the spaces are now sold, so please reserve your reception tickets as soon as possible to guarantee your spot!

About the Presenter

Colin Woodard is a journalist and writer who lives in Portland, Maine. He is the author of numerous acclaimed books, including American Nations (2011), in which he argued hat there’s never been one America but rather several Americas, each with its own, centuries-old ideals, values, and religious and cultural heritage. His most recent book is Nations Apart (2025).

If you would like to get caught up on Colin’s work before the event, several of his books are now available to borrow at the Bethel Library, or for purchase at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society’s museum shop.

Upcoming event:

“The Last, Best Hope: The 250 Year Struggle for the American Experiment in a Divided Federation” with Colin Woodard
March 21, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Gould Academy
39 Church Street, Bethel, ME 04217
Tickets: 250bethel.org/woodard

Reserve Tickets Now!

The Independence 250 Committee and the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society are pleased to invite you to a presentation, book signing, and special author reception featuring acclaimed Maine author Colin Woodard.

Colin Woodard is a journalist and writer who lives in Portland, Maine. Woodard argued in his award-winning book, American Nations, that there’s never been one America but rather several Americas, each with its own, centuries-old ideals, values, and religious and cultural heritage. Thrown together in an accident of history, these regional cultures have fought over the meaning and purpose of the U.S. federation, testing Americans’ commitment to securing the natural rights ideals in the Declaration of Independence. Since American Nations first appeared in 2011, Woodard has continued to develop this theme in later books such as American Character (2016), Union (2020), and Nations Apart (2025)

Woodard’s presentation and book signing at Gould Academy will be free. Following the presentation there will be a special author reception at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society. The reception will feature the opportunity to chat more with the author, enjoy some light refreshments, and socialize in the museum galleries. Special behind-the-scenes tours will also be offered with the Museums’ Executive Director. Tickets to the reception are $20 for Museums of the Bethel Historical Society members and $25 for non-members. The reception is a fundraiser for the Independence 250 programs series.

Both the presentation and reception have limited capacity. Please reserve your free presentation tickets and reception tickets now.

Reserve Tickets Now!

Upcoming event:

“Ghosts of Centennials Past” with Will Chapman
February 21, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Mason House, Museums of the Bethel Historical Society
14 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

Happy Presidents’ Day Friends!

Today is the annual commemoration of the birth of George Washington and others who have served in our nation’s highest office. It is also the perfect day for a reminder of the fun program coming up this Saturday.

In “Ghosts of Centennials Past,” Museums of the Bethel Historical Society Executive Director Will Chapman will be our otherworldy guide as we are visited by three spirits: the Ghosts of 1876, 1926, and 1976, who will transport us back in time to learn about how the the centennial, sesquicentennial, and bicentennial of American independence were celebrated both nationally and locally.

This program will begin at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 21, and will take place in the Howe Exhibit Hall in the barn of the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society’s Mason House at 14 Broad Street, Bethel.

Upcoming event:

Live Book Reading and Discussion: The Age of Homespun
February 1, 8, 15, and 22, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Reading Room, Museums of the Bethel Historical Society
10 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

Starting on February 1st, the Independence 250 Committee and the Bethel Library Association’s Yarn Hub are hosting a monthly long reading of The Age of Homespun by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. This book presents a fascinating look at how everyday objects—spinning wheels, cloth, clothing—shaped early American life, especially women’s work and experiences.

This book reminds us that history isn’t just made in grand moments, but in the quiet, skillful labor of daily life. In keeping with the theme of the book, please bring any handwork project you have going (knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, embroidery, rug hooking, quilting, hand piecing). And if you don’t have a handwork project going, come anyway.

You do not need to read the book, but if you want to, there will be a few copies of the book to borrow from the Bethel Library Association.

Upcoming event:

Book Discussion: American Scripture
January 31, 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Bethel Library Association
6 Broad Street, Bethel, ME
Remote Option

We on the Independence 250 committee are busy finishing our read of American Scripture by Pauline Maier, and hope you are excited to join us! The discussion will take place on Saturday, January 31, at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethel Library Association and will be the first meeting in our Independence 250 Book Discussion Series.

Remote Option

A hybrid option will be available for those unable to attend in person. Please click here to join us via Zoom.

Reviews and Author Interviews

If you want to do some extra preparation for our upcoming discussion, here are some links to reviews of American Scripture and long-form interviews with Pauline Maier. Feel free to deep-dive into this content prior to our conversation on Saturday—or just focus on reading the book!

https://bit.ly/PodcastDiscussion

https://bit.ly/PaulineMeier

https://bit.ly/CSpanInterview

https://bit.ly/PaulineMaierinterview

https://bit.ly/AnotherAmericanScripturereview

Oxford Democrat, July 11, 1876

Centennial Letter, No. 3.

BY S. E. S.

FIFTH AVENUE HOTEL.
Phila., Pa.

Our third day in the Exhibition was devoted to the Art Gallery or Memorial Hall—a magnificent structure of white marble, with a dome like the State House, which building, though lofty and spacious, was found to be incapable of containing the exhibits of art sent in from ail quarters of the globe; and it was deemed necessary to construct an Annex Building containing forty-five rooms, each about forty feet square. We do not pretend to criticise or even to attempt any description of these works of art. We could only give a hasty look at the paintings and sculpture from Italy, Spain, France, England, Canada and other countries, but we confess we loved to linger most among the works of our own American artists, where there was nothing to shock the eye or the taste and much to attract and delight. Among the paintings exhibited by the U.S. we noticed only two from our own State. These were “On the Coast of Maine,” by Harry Brown, and Holmes’s large landscape “Near the Adirondacks.”1 It was impossible to do justice to this department in the short time we had to devote to it; and we would have loved to spend weeks in a careful study of the various and wonderful displays of art here exhibited. Though there is much that is atrocious and indecent, there is more that is pleasing, ennobling and elevating.

The Annex to the Main Building contains carriages of every description, from different countries, some of them harnessed to stuffed horses that looked as if alive and just ready for a start. There were elegant private carriages that might have been constructed for kings and queens so richly were they upholstered and finished, and baby carriages of wonderful structure and elegance, among which we noticed a combined carriage and cradle with a canopy, reversible top, shifting handle and reversible body. Some of the vehicles from foreign countries were extravagantly luxurious, while others were strangely uncouth. Some had the driver’s seat on the back of the carriage high up above the heads of the occupants so that all he could see was the top of the horses’ heads. One of the beautiful Italian carriages was put to a strange use. It was something like a cab and was upholstered with delicate blue satin which cost twenty dollars a yard. While the exhibitor was absent at noon, an Irish woman with five little children conceived this to be a nice place for them to dine—so she opened the doors and took her little family within and they had a fine pic-nic all to themselves. The wrath of the exhibitor on his return can be better imagined than described.

The Woman’s Pavilion was our next place of resort. Here we found all kinds of work performed by women, embroideries, carvings, straw work, bead work, and the like—very much like what is seen at our county fairs, though on a much broader scale. Here were seen contributions from the royal family of England, such as etchings by the Queen, table napkins spun by the royal hands, s table cloth and a banner screen embroidered by Princesses, and drawings of flowers by the Marchioness of Lorne.

Horticultural Hall next demanded our attention. Here we found all kinds of foliage with fountains and statuary, dried flowers and grasses, straw ornaments, and natural flowers preserved without the aid of wax, sent by California. There were lovely wreaths, holding their natural colors, and looking as fresh as if just made. Outside of this building, under a huge tent cover, were beautiful Rhododendrons of ever variety of color making a magnificent display. Other flowers and plants were growing outside in large gardens laid out with a great taste and beauty.

Agricultural Hall with its green roof next attracted our attention. Here were spices, fruits, confections and seeds of all kinds arranged in pavilions, arches, conical pyramids and other curious structures—a palace of wool, a cracker edifice, immense soda fountains with beautiful statuary. One corn start manufacturer had his boxes arranged very artistically. In front of his pavilion was a huge pedestal surmounted by a marble group of statues as large as life, revolving in one direction, while in an outer circle, flower pots and cans of starch revolved in the opposite direction.

New Jersey exhibited huge strawberries, any one of which would make two bites. The large glass jars of pickles, fruit, oysters, &c., were enough to make housekeepers open their eyes with wonder and delight. When we passed the spice exhibit, the air seemed filled with “odors from Araby the blest.”

All along one end of this building were great numbers of aquaria filled with all kinds of small fish, eels, king-crabs, sea turtles, &c. There was an immense tank of water filled with full rigged sailing vessels and boats, representing the Gloucester fisheries, with a wharf in one corner such as was constructed 100 years ago, and in another corner one of the present day. On shelves near by were arranged different models of articles used from the year 1800 to this time—also trophies taken by the fishermen, among which were corals and rocks that came up on their lines from 900 ft. below the surface of the water, curious shells, seaweed and sponges. In this hall we saw the veritable eagle “Old Abe,” who went through the late war with distinguished honors.

The Glass building we did not enter; but it presents a very attractive outside, with its numerous bright glass balls, of ever color, all around the edge of the large roof.

The Government Building engrossed one day of our time, and we left it then reluctantly. As you enter the building you come upon the Navy department, in which are portraits of distinguished men and life size wax figures dressed in the costume of a hundred years ago, minute men in white pants, and green coats with brass buttons, warriors in blue and gilt, seamen in their loose uniforms wit their cutlasses in hand, models of vessels full-rigged, miniature three deckers, and boats of every description, all kinds of ammunition, bomb shells some of which are opened to expose the inside, cannon balls, of which some were cracked open and broken from having been fired at iron targets, huge monitors, and all kinds of curiosities collected by the navy—also models of dry docks, representations of the huts in which Greenlanders live in winter, Esquimaux figures, boats, &c.

In the Post Office department there were models of fast mail cars, running on rails and showing how they take the U. S. Mail from the various stations, without stopping or slackening their speed. We saw three machines in operation for making envelopes, another for stamping, folding and putting on the mucilage, all of which was done as fast as one could take them up in little bundles and put the bands upon them.

We saw the original ledge of Benj. Franklin, the first Postmaster General of the United States, for the year ending Oct. 5th, 1775, models of wheels and presses, and books of raised letters for the blind.

In the U. S. department of Agriculture were all kinds of wood, pressed flowers and leaves, immense pine cones, wax models of fruit, and all the insects injurious or beneficial to agriculture.

We were made acquainted with numerous barometers, thermometers, hygrometers and all the other ’ometers, and were told how “Old Probabilities” prognosticated the weather.

In the Smithsonian department of this building we saw native copper and iron ores from Michigan, gold and silver ores from Colorado, silver ores from Utah, immense cubes of Vermont marbles, polished and unpolished, Indian manufactures in pottery, beads, furs and feathers; objects of clay in terra cotta from Mexico, wooden images, curiously carved, immense idols, one of which reached to the top of the building and was composed of numerous headed monsters, and other curiosities both modern and antique. We saw copper ore crystalized in the shape of fern leaves, brilliant specimens of different ores from California and geological specimens from other States.

There were hundreds of models of various kinds of fish, life size—immense sharks, torpedo fish, Jew fish, spear, sail and flying fish, and every other kind of fish found in the waters of our own country.

In glass cases were to be seen walrus tusks polished and “scrimshawed” by sailors, articles of all kinds manufactured from pearl shells, pieces of wood showing the ravages of the ship worm, lovely baskets, arrows, flowers, picture frames, and other ornaments, all made of shells.

Then we came upon the stuffed animals, from a wee mouse to a huge buffalo. There were the Polar and the grizzly bear, the elk, large seals and little baby seals, walruses, immense sea-lions, a white whale, huge leather-backed turtles, crocodiles and other sea monsters.

In the light-house department, were huge, revolving light-house lamps, models of light-houses, among which was one of the new Minot’s Ledge light-house built of granite. It has a huge fog bell which is struck by machinery. There were also self-recording thermometers and barometers and coast survey instruments of every kind.

In the war department were portraits of the Secretaries of War and other officials. Among the numerous implements used in that department were buoyant torpedoes in tanks of water. We saw an immense trip hammer forge pounding out the butt plate of muskets. We saw bullets, cartridges and percussion caps made; and we were attracted by a model of the U. S. arsenal, Rock Island, Ill.

We left the Government Building with the resolve that if it were possible we would spend another day in examining its exhibits, and wended our way to Machinery Hall of which we will give you some account in our next letter.

Upcoming event:

Book Discussion: American Scripture
January 31, 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Bethel Library Association
6 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

The first meeting in our Independence 250 Book Discussion Series will take place on Saturday, January 31, at 2:00 p.m. at the Bethel Library Association. We will be discussing the book, American Scripture: Making the Declaration of Independence by Pauline Meier.

In American Scripture, Maier shows us the Declaration as both the defining statement of our national identity and the moral standard by which we live as a nation. The book explores everything from the Declaration’s birth in the hard and tortuous struggle by which Americans arrived at Independence to the ways in which, in the nineteenth century, the document itself became sanctified.

In a time when debates about equality, freedom, and national identity are at the forefront of our political and cultural conversations, American Scripture reminds us that America’s founding ideals weren’t inevitabilities—they were arguments shaped by people, politics, and compromise. We chose this book to open our book discussion series, because it’s a perfect way into thinking about what the Declaration of Independence means today.

And since a few people have asked, we want to reassure you the book is a breezy 215 page survey, not a dense academic tome!

A hybrid option will be available for those unable to attend in person. Please let us know if you would like to be put on the list!

If you need a copy of the book, they are available for a special price of $10 at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society and the Bethel Library Association.

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This gift contains a colorful assortment of chocolates including a mix of caramels and creams, specialty pieces like rich chocolate-covered fudge and chocolate-covered chewy vanilla nougat, all surrounding a milk chocolate “I Love You” card.

Click here to order online or call 207-824-2908.

Oxford Democrat, July 4, 1876

Centennial Letter, No. 2.

BY S. E. S.

FIFTH AVENUE HOTEL.
Philadelphia, June 14th, 1876.

Mr. Editor:

In our last we gave you the exhibits of the U.S. in the main building; and we will now offer some account of our second day in this edifice. Next to the U.S. department, on the right, Mexico displayed a fine collection of beautifully polished marble.

In taking a cursory glance at the exhibits of these different countries, we shall only speak of what we were particularly pleased with, in each one; for, as we said before, it would be impossible to describe all the articles contributed. As one mathematical genius has ascertained, it would take about twenty-three years to survey the whole exhibition, allowing five minutes to each contributor, and using a reasonable number of hours each day.

In the Netherlands department we found a model of a house with a thatched roof, and other models giving some idea of their mode of dress and living.

Brazil has a brilliant display of flowers made entirely of feathers, and some curious insect jewelry made from the bright green beetles and other beautifully colored insects, in gold settings.

The Belgium laces were enough to drive the ladies “raving, distracted, crazy.” They lingered over the lovely delicate fabrics and “oh!-ah”’d” and sighed and broke the 10th commandment; and all the while their liege lords were wondering “what on earth they could see to admire so in those flimsy gewgaws.” There were several wax figures, life size, in full dress. One was very beautifully robed in soft, white grosgrain silk, trimmed elaborately with elegant black lace. Another wore a lovely pale lavender silk, with wide white lace trimmings, and here and there, on the skirt, were little bouquets made of white lace. There were also beautiful silk laces.

The Switzerland embroideries were very fine; and the models of Swiss architecture and the fancy ornaments were exceedingly attractive.

France and her colonies made a fine exhibit of church ornaments, large statues and elegant jewelry, among which was a diamond necklace worth $40,000.

Great Britain had large apartments representing the different rooms of a dwelling house, richly furnished. The beautiful mahogany and satin-wood furniture from London, was particularly noticeable. There was also some ancient furniture on exhibition here. High up above the other exhibits, was a magnificent woven tapestry hanging, representing Christ and the Twelve Apostles, like an oil painting.

Canada had numerous models of public buildings and even whole cities laid out in miniature; and the minerals from that province made an attractive appearance. An inlaid table was here seen, in the top of which were over 100,000 different pieces of wood, all representing a fine picture.

In Jamaica we saw ladies’ hats made of the bark of a tree; and the flowers with which they were trimmed were manufactured from the inside cuticle of the leaf of the tree.

Australia had a huge skeleton of a bird, a great variety of butterflies, immense gold nuggets, and numerous specimens of corals and sea-weed.

India and other colonies had on exhibition a great number of beautiful shells, models of fruits growing in that country, and finely polished wood.

Sweden had several life size groups of figures in wax, showing the habits, customs and modes of dress there, among which groups was a touching representation of Death in the Household. The mother was bending over the couch on which lay the marble form of her little one; and the father sat facing the back of his chair while he held his pipe in his hand. The minister was near with the good Book open in his hand. Near by was the coffin. The mother’s foot protruded from under the folds of her dress and the hob-nailed shoe, with the heel in the middle of the foot, was a curious specimen of cobblers. The countenances of these figures were very natural and life-like, and the cracks and calluses on the father’s hands seemed like real flesh and blood. Another group represented the Old Clockmaker and family. There were also models of Swedish houses, and samples of their furs, among which were some very elegant robes.

Norway also had groups as above. One was of a man riding on a boat-like sledge, made of leather and drawn by a reindeer guided by a single rope, on one side. Wool was spread on the ground to represent snow. Near by, was the wife, walking, and holding under her arm a canoe-shaped leather box, in which was a little babe. The mother’s hair was worn in two long braids down the back. They were all dressed in fur and leather.

Italy exhibits were very striking and beautiful. There were lovely wares, rich mosaics, fine sculptures, shell jewelry, silver filigree ornaments, very nice Leghorn hats, and a large ornamented silver bell which visitors were allowed to strike with the ball which was on the outside, the bell being hung on a framework.

Orange Free State had a large collection of feathers, stuffed birds, insects, etc.1

Peru exhibited mummies, geological specimens and the products peculiar to that region; there was also a singularly recognizable statuette of Gen. Grant and the American eagle, made wholly of wire and placed under a glass globe.

China was rather late in getting her exhibits here, and but a small space was allotted to her in this building. This was filled with unpacked boxes and rubbish the day we were there, and two Chinamen in native costume, with long queues, loose white trousers and shoes with thick, soft white soles, were unpacking and arranging elegant vases and ornaments of wondrous shape, in a huge pyramid. There were also pictures and fans curiously wrought with silk, odd paintings, mosaics, etc. We could but notice the difference between these men and the Japanese of whom we saw several. The latter were fine-looking and intelligent and had adopted our modes of dress, while the former cling to their own costumes and habits with strong pertinacity. They are an inferior race, and their genius is wholly imitative.

[2026 note: Views such as this were unfortunately common during the 1870s, when anti-Chinese racism was reaching its pinnacle in the United States. Many Chinese laborers had recently become employed in industries such as mining and railroad construction, and—especially after the financial Panic of 1873 and resulting economic depression—these workers were often scapegoated for depressed wages. Anti-Chinese rhetoric was promoted by labor leaders, by politicians of both parties, and by working class white people as well as members of elite social circles. However, anti-Chinese racism wasn’t just rhetorical, it was often lethal. In 1885, at least 28 immigrant Chinese miners were massacred by European immigrant miners in Rock Springs, Wyoming. Six years after this letter was original published, Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, the first major law restricting emigration to the United States on the basis of national origin.]

Japan had a magnificent display of carved wooden boxes, ornaments and furniture, curious toys and images, and vases of rare beauty and size. Two huge ones on large pedestals were marked $2,500.

The Sandwich Islands had on exhibit casks of different kinds of sugar, stuffed birds of brilliant plumage, garments made of the inside fibre of grass, with shells for buttons, and a framed wreath made of sea-weed and shells, enclosing the words

      ALOHA AMERICA
                 1876.

Denmark offered wonderful terra cottas, and table stands, one of which was inlaid with silver and gold, and cost $4,500.

Turkey was not open, and unpacked boxes and packages blocked the way.

Egypt had inscribed on her enclosure, “The oldest nation in the world sends a morning greeting to the youngest nation.” Among her exhibits were huge dried crocodiles, shells of every size and description, richly embroidered garments and other national manufactures.

New Zealand displayed rich furs and gorgeous leather.

Spain was remarkable for its gold embroideries, laces and jewelry.

Russia brought to the exhibition specimens of very fine green marble, with graining like pictures. We noticed a set of furniture made from elk’s or deer’s horns.

Austria and Hungary offered lovely wares, vases and ornaments of rare beauty, marble, mosaics, Bohemian cut glass and rich jewelry, and some very elegant furniture made from bent wood. We saw a case of 12 buttoned kid gloves which attracted much attention.

The German Empire contributed church ornaments, statuary, paintings, jewelry, fine carpets, velvets of rich texture and color, laid in graceful folds in form of a palace, with bright worsteds so arranged above as to represent a rainbow.

In our next we will give some account of what we saw in other buildings, all we have written thus far having been the exhibits in one building alone.

Upcoming event:

Independence 250 Kickoff
January 10, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Mason House, Museums of the Bethel Historical Society
14 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

Are you ready to help the Independence 250 committee start our 2026 exploration of the American revolution? We hope so!

Our kick-off event is tomorrow at 2:00 pm at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society’s Mason House. We’ll have some information on what’s coming up throughout the year along with a highlight reel and discussion of the Ken Burns documentary, The American Revolution.

The aim of the Independence 250 program series is not just to recount the events of 1776. We hope to open up a community-wide conversation about the significance of the American Revolution and what it means today. With that in mind, here are some questions to help get you pondering the Revolution in a new light:

• How viable are the traditional, heroic depictions of the American Revolution?

• In what ways does viewing the Revolution as a civil war change our understanding of it?

• How should we reconcile the Revolution’s ideals with its limitations and the people it left excluded from its promise of liberty?

• What connections do you see between the divisions of the Revolutionary era and those in America today?

We invite you to bring your own questions to the kickoff and to all subsequent events. See you tomorrow!

Upcoming event:

Independence 250 Kickoff
January 10, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Mason House, Museums of the Bethel Historical Society
14 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

At a time when questions about democracy, unity, and national identity feel especially urgent, Ken Burns’ documentary The American Revolution reminds us that the United States was born from debate, conflict, and a bold belief that people could govern themselves — even when the outcome was far from guaranteed.

This is why the Independence 250 committee has chosen to screen a highlight reel at the kick-off event for our year-long program series. If you have already watched the documentary, you will be prepared for the short discussion session after the screening. If you haven’t seen it yet, this highlight reel will definitely whet your appetite.

Want to learn more? Here are a few essays and reviews that dive deeper into the documentary’s themes, commenting on and critiquing it from a variety of different perspectives:

“Ken Burns’s Wake-Up Call,” Susan Brynne Long, Law & Liberty

“What was the American Revolution for?” Jill Lepore, The New Yorker

“Ken Burns on his American Revolution documentary: ‘We won’t work on a more important film’”, interview with David Smith, The Guardian

“The Incoherence of Ken Burns’s ‘The American Revolution’” Adam Rowe, Compact

“The Catholic stories Ken Burns left out of his new American Revolution documentary,” Anthony D. Andreassi, America: The Jesuit Review

From May 10 to November 10, 1876, a large-scale exposition was held in Philadelphia to commemorate the centennial of the Declaration of Independence’s adoption in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776. Nearly 10 million Americans visited the exposition, and newspapers across the country carried eyewitness accounts from correspondents. From Maine, a delegation of about 50, including many of the state’s newspaper men and their wives went as part of an “editorial excursion.” The Oxford Democrat carried a series of letters from one member of the party, Sarah Ellen Shaw, the wife of former Democrat editor and publisher Col. Frederick Eaton Shaw.1

As part of our year long exploration of the Declaration of Independence and the ways in which its meaning has developed over time, the Independence 250 Committee is also examining the ways in which earlier anniversary’s were celebrated both locally and nationally. Shaw’s letters offer a firsthand account of how Americans encountered industry, art, music, and national identity at the country’s first “world’s fair.” We will be republishing the series in weekly installments.

On Saturday, February 21, at 2:00 p.m., Museums of the Bethel Historical Society Executive Director William Chapman will present “Ghosts of Centennials Past,” a program on how the American Centennial of 1876 and Bicentennial of 1976 were celebrated in the Bethel area. The presentation will take place in Howe Exhibit Hall, in the barn of MBHS’s Mason House, and will be free to attend.

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Oxford Democrat, June 27, 1876

Centennial Letter, No. 1.

BY S. E. S.

FIFTH AVENUE HOTEL.
PHILADELPHIA, June 10th, 1876.

Mr. Editor:—It is utterly impossible to “do” the Centennial in the short time to which visitors generally limit themselves. One could spend three months here, and then not see all there is of interest. No one can form an adequate conception of the magnitude of the exhibition from the pictorial representations of the buildings, so freely circulated.

We are with the Maine editorial party at the Elm Avenue Hotel, where we are very agreeably entertained, and have the advantage of being near the Centennial grounds. We arrived in P. At noon; and in the afternoon we took the horse cars and rode to the various places of interest to be seen in the city.

The first building which every stranger will wish to see is Independence Hall. The exterior walls of which have been touched up to resemble as nearly as possible their appearance one hundred years ago. Here is where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Nearly all the portraits in this building are of those who figured in the Revolution.

Then there is Carpenter’s Hall, where the first Congress met; the Blind asylum, the Deaf & Dumb asylum, Masonic Temple, Girard College and U. S. Mint, and other places of interest which would require more time than we could devote to them. In the evening a ride round Fairmount Park was very delightful. We called on some of the Mass. editors who were at the Grand Exposition Hotel, put up for this exhibition, and capable of accommodating 4000 guests.

The ride round Fairmount Park gave us a fine view of the exterior of the Exhibition buildings, which are five in number and occupy about 60 acres; 230 acres are used for the whole exhibition. There are a great many other buildings which might be denominated public, such as the U. S. Government Building, Office of Centennial Commission, Women’s Pavilion, &c; and about twenty states have erected edifices of great beauty, which are used as offices, parlors &c. About 150 buildings in all are erected on the grounds.

The first thing to be done on entering the enclosure, is to take the steam cars, in which for 5 cts. you can ride round among the principal structures, for 4 miles, that you may get some idea of their situation, then form your plan for the day, and don’t undertake too much. We spent two whole days in one building, and did not begin to be satisfied, not having seen more than half it contained. The grounds between are laid out in gardens enclosed by iron wickets and ornamented with fountains of every description, huge vases, pillars and memorial statues.

The Centennial Fountain is a large circular basin, 40 feet in diameter and has in its center, a mass of rock-work, surmounted by a colossal statue of Moses, pointing upwards. The French fountain is very striking; and the Catholic Temperance Fountain which is not yet complete, is to be a grand affair.

Every day, both forenoon and afternoon, this week, Gilmore’s Band has given free concerts, at the Music Pavilion, which is in a beautiful grove.2 We understand that Gilmore was told his music was too high an order; and when asked if he could not play something that the common people could appreciate, he replied “No! If they can’t come up to me, I’ll not lower myself to play ten-penny music to them,” in which we think he was right.

Every noon the chime bells ring. We heard them play America, Maryland, Marseille’s Hymn and other national airs.

In the center of the main building is a huge elevator, in which for 10 cts., one can be taken up 101 feet, where if he chooses, he can walk over the top of the building which is one third of a mile long and about 500 ft. wide. In this edifice are many beautiful fountains, rockeries, statues and designs of great interest. Rolling chairs are provided in which for 60 cts. an hour, one may be wheeled round the various buildings. There are settees provided at convenient distances, and ladies’ rooms, where persons will be found to take charge of any garments or articles left with them free of charge.

The grand pianos and organs in the main buildings are played every day, and we heard some fine vocal music whenever we were there. All this is free. Then there are restaurants and cofies with all that can be furnished at a first class hotel, and at many of them, at very reasonable rates. One who wishes to make a thorough survey of this building should obtain a chart such as was published some time since by Harper Bros.

Entering the edifice on the easterly end, we find the Maine Head Quarters at the left; and all the space on the left of the center nave down to the center transept is devoted to the United States.

Everything is so beautifully and artistically arranged, that the effect is wonderfully pleasing. Spools of cotton forming huge pyramids, arches, monuments, towers and domes, diamond shaped, cubical and conical. Eagle pencils so finely grouped as to attract the eye at once. Even such common things as steel screws are fastened on velvet or kid back-grounds in such fanciful shapes as to represent wheels, crowns, crosses and hearts. Palaces of soap, of every variety, shape and color, present a very pretty appearance.

Then we come upon oil carpets arranged in octagonal revolving pyramids.

We were especially attracted by the marble works of the U. S. Among which was the representation of a child asleep, under a lace shawl. One little hand grasped the corner of the shawl above the head, while one foot was thrown out from the covering. The child’s features could be distinctly seen under the marble lace, which we had to touch to be sure that it was really marble.

We passed by a large polished mirror in which we saw a full length reflection of our own person which we hardly recognized; for we were attenuated to the size of a walking stick, like “sweetness long drawn out;” and near by, was another mirror in which we appeared about four time as large as life. We took our friends there to show them how they had been puffed up since they came to the Centennial.

We were much pleased with the exhibits of the zinc and galvanized iron works. There were summer houses of thin wire, which looked like lace network, and garden chairs, bird cages, statues and ornaments for gardens and grounds which are warranted to stand the exposure to heat and rain without rusting.

In one department, we saw a set of furniture made from an old maple tree that grew in Independence Square. The tree was over 100 years old when it was cut down.

There were several enclosures to represent the rooms of a dwelling house, and they were furnished with elegant carpets, pictures, and furniture beautifully upholstered; with fine wainscoting and other interior decorations.

The Phila terra cotta works were particularly attractive.

N. York sends exhibits of huge crystal chandeliers and church metal furniture, ornamental bronzes, and beautiful Palissy ware. Tiffany displays a diamond necklace worth $80,000, and a solitaire worth $15,000.3 We noticed in Tiffany’s department a stand with a top made of Mexican onyx which had been sold for $500.00 to Mrs. Crocker of California.

The Gorham Company’s exhibit of silver is very fine. The Century Vase is of solid silver. It is on a slab of polished granite. A band of stars, 38, encircling the piece, 13 in front, represents the present and original number of States in the Union. On one side is the Genius of War, on the other is the Lion led by little children. The medallion in front is the Angel of Fame; on the other side is the Genius of Philosophy. Above this the vase rises, the front and reverse panel of which represents Genius inscribing on the tablet. There are figures denoting Europe, Asia, and Africa bringing in their contributions to the Exhibition, while the central figure America, is welcoming them and asking them to unite with her in celebrating her Centennial year.

Upcoming event:

Independence 250 Kickoff
January 10, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Mason House, Museums of the Bethel Historical Society
14 Broad Street, Bethel, ME

Hello friends!

We hope you are enjoying a wonderful holiday season. We are just a few weeks away the beginning of our year-long investigation of the American Revolution and its continuing relevance.

Come join us for the kick-off event for the Independence 250 program series to pick up a copy of the first reading group book, and learn more about what we have planned for 2026! This event will feature a screening and discussion of a highlight reel from Ken Burns’ The American Revolution documentary. (The complete documentary is now available for streaming on PBS.org or the PBS app!)

Check out this interview with Ken Burns to learn more about this terrific documentary.

In 2026, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society and partnering organizations will join communities across the nation in marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. Our regional activities are organized under the banner of Independence 250: Engage With Our History. The project has been developed by a coordinating committee that began its work in the spring of 2025, and includes trustees and staff of MBHS as well as individual community members and representatives of organizations including the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce, MSAD #44, the Rotary Club of Bethel, Bethel Library Association, Rumford Public Library, Bethel Area Arts and Music, the Mahoosuc Land Trust, and Western Mountains Senior College.

On our new website, 250Bethel.org, you’ll find a full calendar of events which have been planned so far, including lectures, a book discussion series, programming for families and children, and our expanded Fourth of July Community Celebration, which will feature our annual concert by the Portland Brass Quintet, as well as a parade, games and activities, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.

In addition to the events listed on the calendar, several special projects are underway. Our skilled “sewer-in-residence,” Donna Gillis, is leading a statewide commemorative quilt project that will bring together quilt guilds from across Maine to create a patchwork celebrating each of the sixteen counties. We are also partnering with local schools to involve students in projects, including on an oral history project, and preparing two special exhibits: a showcase of centennial- era quilts, and a look back at how Bethel and the surrounding region celebrated earlier national milestones.

This Sunday (September 7), from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, the Middle Intervale Meeting House Society will offer a free event for the community, featuring an open house and live music preformed by a local favorite, musician Seth Gallant.

Will Chapman, Historian of the Middle Intervale Meeting House Society and Executive Director of the Museums of the Bethel Bethel Historic Society, will present a brief overview of the meeting houses’s history. The Middle Intervale Meeting House was built in 1816 as a place for both religious and civic purposes. The building and its common were placed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

The Meeting House is located at 745 Intervale Road, Bethel, across the street from the Carter family’s Middle Intervale Farm. Light refreshments will be served. Donations will be gratefully accepted.