Historical society raises money to acquire microfilm

BETHEL — Thanks to the generosity of Bethel Historical Society life member Christopher Hovey of Falmouth, plus two anonymous donors, the Society has begun to acquire 26 rolls of microfilm containing issues of the Portland Transcript newspaper dating between April 1837 and March 1899. An important Maine paper founded in 1837, the Transcript contains considerable information on Maine Mormonism, railroads, historical figures and town developments. In addition, Dr. Nathaniel T. True - Bethel historian and Gould Academy principal - frequently contributed articles describing and promoting western Maine. The Society is pleased to have already raised nearly $400 toward the total cost of $1768 (26 rolls at $68 each).

“We are of course, delighted and grateful to have this resource to add to our offerings for researchers,” Executive Director Randall Bennett said in making the announcement. “It will be of great assistance in helping us understand the early Mormon presence in Maine (and notable in the Bethel area), as well as all kinds of other topics that may become the subject of future programs and exhibitions,” he added. Once acquired, the Portland Transcript collection will supplement those newspapers already in the Bethel Historical Society’s research library holdings, including The Bethel News, Bethel Citizen, Oxford Democrat, Oxford Observer, Norway Advertiser, Among the Clouds, and the Advertiser-Democrat. The Society welcomes donations in any amount toward the cost of this worthwhile project. Since the Bethel Historical Society is a 501 (c) 3 organization, financial gifts are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.

For more information, call 824-2908 or 800-824-2910 or e-mail info@bethelhistorical.org.