Pejepscot Historical Society

The Pejepscot Historical Society was founded in 1888 by a group of sixteen local citizens seeking to preserve the history of a region that was experiencing rapid industrialization and growth. The Society acquired its first building in 1892 in which members installed their first exhibits and conducted public programs. In 1974 the Society relocated to a larger year-round facility enabling it to expand its collections and program offerings. 1983 marked the start of the most recent phase of the Society’s physical growth, as it acquired three new, significant properties: the Skolfield-Whittier House, the Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain House, and the Pejepscot Museum. In 1986 the Society hired its first executive director, and began the transition from an all-volunteer institution into an organization with a focused goal and increased professionalism. The trustees adopted the statement of purpose above in 1987, and this statement has guided the Society’s mission since, as a measure of relevancy of its programs, exhibitions and collecting.