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KENNEBUNKPORT
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES ARCHIVE TOUR
This unscripted tour offers a rare look into the society’s extensive archives, featuring historic photographs, diaries, old maps, and unique artifacts that tell the story of Kennebunkport’s past.
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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Cheers to Jane Higgins and to all our wonderful volunteers!
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NEW VOLUNTEER
OPEN HOUSE
Are you looking for fun ways to meet new people and give back to your community at the same time?
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A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS
As we reflect on the past year, we are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our community. This gratitude extends to:
OUR EXTRAORDINARY TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS
Your talent and dedication have translated into over 1,000 hours of selfless service, furthering our mission and making a lasting impact. Your contributions breathe life into our programs and help us share Kennebunkport’s rich history with the world.
Click here for our list of volunteers.
OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS
Your trust and financial support have been instrumental in our endeavors throughout the year. Your belief in our vision has enabled us to reach new heights and bring our initiatives to fruition. We encourage everyone to patronize our local business sponsors.
To see the list of 2024 sponsors, click here.
OUR VALUED MEMBERS
You are the backbone of our organization. Your commitment and involvement continue to drive the success of our shared mission, and we are honored to have you as part of our community.
Click here to see our membership list.
OUR ANNUAL FUND DONORS
Your generosity fuels our work, supporting everything from educational programs to preservation efforts. The campaign is still ongoing, and your continued support is invaluable.
Please click here to see our community of supporters as of this campaign.
AUCTION/RAFFLE DONORS
Your generosity in providing items and gift certificates for our 2024 auction and raffle has helped us raise vital funds to support our programs and initiatives. Your contributions make a real difference!
Click here to see our 2024 auction donors.
OUR VALUED GRANTORS
We are deeply grateful to the foundations and grantors who have invested in our mission. Your support allows us to expand our educational outreach, preservation efforts, and community programs, ensuring that Kennebunkport’s history is cherished for generations to come. Thank you for believing in the power of history and making our work possible!
Click here to see our generous grantors.
Thank you all for being part of our KHS family—your support, in every form, makes a lasting impact!
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NEW VOLUNTEER
OPEN HOUSE
Are you looking for fun ways to meet new people and give back to your community at the same time?
Consider joining our team of volunteers. We are hosting an open house for new volunteers on Thursday, February 20th, at 4PM.
Please stop by the Pasco Center, 125 North St. to find out more about our volunteer opportunities.
If that date doesn’t meet with your schedule, please reach out and we would be pleased to meet with you privately.
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MID-WEEK MUSIC CONTINUES
AT THE TOWN HOUSE SCHOOL
LIST OF UPCOMING CONCERTS
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The Kennebunkport Historical Society is thrilled to continue its monthly concert series at the Town House School, led by local musician Dana Pearson and his esteemed guest performers. Each concert offers a unique musical journey, celebrating the talents of Dana Pearson and his fellow musicians.
We invite you to join us for these intimate performances and experience the magic of live music right here in Kennebunkport. Be sure to check our upcoming concert schedule and mark your calendars for the next show!
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COUNTRY MUSIC
Wednesday, March 12th at 7pm
Don Wessels of Kennebunk was last on the MWM stage in March 2023 for “Songs of J.J. Cale.” The singer/guitarist is back this year with Dana Pearson for “Country Music,” playing songs from a diverse group of artists including Hank Williams, Kitty Wells, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Dwight Yoakum, Chris Stapleton, Kris Kristofferson, and Dolly Parton.
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DYLAN THROUGH THE YEARS
Wednesday, April 2nd, 9th, & 16th at 7pm
If any musician deserves a three-part concert mini-series, it’s Bob Dylan. Mid-Week Music presents “Dylan Through the Years,” which has Dana Pearson and guest musicians playing one song per album from 1962 to 2023 (plus a few singles, soundtrack tunes, and outtakes) over the course of three full-length concerts on three successive Wednesdays.
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UPCOMING APRIL EVENTS
WITH HISTORIAN, SHARON CUMMINS!
Join us in April for two special programs with KHS Historian Sharon Cummins, offering unique insights into Kennebunkport’s past!
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DOCK SQUARE THROUGH THE YEARS
Join us for a engaging lecture on the history and transformation of Dock Square, the vibrant heart of Kennebunkport. From its early days as a bustling maritime hub to the charming destination it is today, this presentation will explore the square’s evolution through historic photographs, stories, and insights.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor eager to learn more, this event offers a wonderful opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the town’s rich past and how it continues to shape its future.
This event is 21 & Over (BYOB Event)
$6 for KHS Members
$10 for Non-Members
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WHEN: April 17th at 7pm
WHERE: The Town House School (135 North St. in KPT)
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WHEN: April 24th at 11am
WHERE: The Pasco Center (125 North St. in KPT)
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES ARCHIVE TOUR
Join the Kennebunkport Historical Society for an exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Archive Tour. Led by historian Sharon Cummins, this unscripted tour offers a rare look into the society’s extensive archives, featuring historic photographs, diaries, old maps, and unique artifacts that tell the story of Kennebunkport’s past.
Free for Members | First Visit Complimentary for Non-Members
Space is limited!
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LOOKING AHEAD:
250 YEARS OF AMERICA & 75 YEARS OF THE KENNEBUNKPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY!
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We’re excited to explore how Kennebunkport contributed to the American Revolution as we prepare for the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Likewise, in 2027, we’ll celebrate 75 years of the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s dedication to preserving our town’s history.
Would you like to get involved? We’re looking for community members interested in helping shape the American Revolution curriculum, outreach, and supporting events for 2026, as well as the KHS 75th Anniversary celebration in 2027. If you’d like to take part in planning either of these historic milestones, we’d love to hear from you!
Stay tuned for more details on these celebrations.
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A REMARKABLE ADDITION TO OUR ARCHIVES:
An Original Louis Norton Sketch
We are delighted to announce an exciting new acquisition for the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s archives—an original sketch by the renowned artist Louis Norton!
This extraordinary piece was recently brought to our attention from a private collection. Through the generosity of Michael Burd, who provided funding, we were able to purchase the sketch at a greatly reduced price, thanks to the kind consideration of the seller. We are honored to add this significant work to our collection, where it will be preserved and celebrated as part of Kennebunkport’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.
Visitors and researchers are welcome to view the sketch in our archives. We invite you to stop by and experience this exceptional piece of history firsthand!
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Louis D. Norton Drawing: L'Amour
Many thanks to Director Michael Burd for buying this beautiful portrait drawn by Louis D. Norton in 1902 for the collections of the Kennebunkport Historical Society. It is titled L’Amour. There must be a story behind this! Thanks also to Alice Galloway of Methuen, MA for thinking of us.
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LOUIS T. GRAVES MEMORIAL LIBRARY DONATION | |
Thanks to Louis T. Graves Memorial Library for donating 2 rug hooking books by Joan Moshimer, a long-time resident of North Street | |
TOM & PATTY MCGOVERN DONATION
Thanks to Tom & Patty McGovern for donating a copy of On Shore Ballads inscribed by the Kennebunkport poet who authored it in 1937.
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ARCHIVE VOLUNTEERS:
IAN SHERIDAN & SUSAN GRAESSER
Thanks to Archive Volunteer Ian Sheridan for checking to make sure the old photos are stored properly in the proper sequence. Houdlette cabinet cards of the Kennebunk-built Louis V. Place H739 and Eagle Wing H740 are properly filed.
| Thanks to Archive Volunteer Susan Graesser for continuing to transcribe our original Donor Books of Acquisition papers. What a job! | |
ACTON ACADEMY VISIT:
We were delighted to welcome students from Acton Academy as they explored local history for their research project. Historian Sharon Cummins shared fascinating stories, artifacts, and photographs about shipwrecks along our coast, bringing the past to life in an engaging and interactive session. It was a pleasure to support their curiosity and learning!
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For the past ten years, Jane Higgins has been a dedicated volunteer at the Kennebunkport Historical Society. As a docent at the Nott House, she brings history to life for visitors, sharing the rich stories of our town's past. In the off-season, you’ll find her in the archives each week, meticulously scanning documents and books to help preserve history for future generations.
According to Jane, "Volunteering gives me purpose. It also provides a little more structure to my life. I really enjoy it! It feels very rewarding to give something to this community."
Jane holds a PhD in Higher Education Administration from the University of Connecticut and enjoyed a 33-year career in higher education. She retired in 2009 as the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean at Central Connecticut State University. After moving to Maine in 2011 with her partner, Jane noticed a sign seeking volunteers at the Nott House. Intrigued by an exhibit featuring George H.W. Bush memorabilia and eager to learn more about the Bush family's connection to Kennebunkport, she stepped through the doors—and has been an invaluable part of our team ever since!
Beyond her passion for history, Jane enjoys cooking, reading, and walking. She’s also a proud aunt and thrilled to announce the recent birth of a new great-great nephew! Volunteering has not only allowed Jane to give back but has also led her to wonderful new friendships along the way.
Thank you, Jane, for your decade of dedication to the Kennebunkport Historical Society!
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EXCLUSIVE RENTAL OPPORTUNITY:
HOST YOUR EVENT ON THE NOTT HOUSE LAWN!
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As we gear up for two major milestones—the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026 and the 75th anniversary of the Kennebunkport Historical Society in 2027—we are making a change to our summer schedule. While we will not host a summer lawn party in 2025, we are opening the Nott House Lawn for exclusive private event rentals. Due to the property’s residential location, only two rentals per year will be available. While this opportunity will not be widely advertised, those interested in hosting a tented event in this spectacular setting can email Khaight@Kporths.com for more information. | |
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HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH
HISTORIC CHARM!
The Town House School
For a more casual gathering, the Town House School offers a charming, versatile space ideal for memorial gatherings, birthday parties, bridal showers, club meetings, and more. The rental includes the use of folding tables and chairs, a large-screen TV, Wi-Fi, ample parking, and outdoor space to enhance your event.
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MEMBER BENEFITS
KHS members enjoy a 20% discount on Town House School rentals and receive priority booking for exclusive events at the Nott House.
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MARCH MEMBERSHIP MADNESS: JOIN, RENEW, REFER & WIN! | | |
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This March, help us grow the Kennebunkport Historical Society and enjoy exclusive rewards!
🍀 Join & Save – Sign up for a membership in March and get 10% off memberships of $100 & up (online purchases only).
🎟 Win a Gift Basket – Join or renew at any level in March and get one entry into a drawing for a Kport-themed gift basket!
✨ Refer & Boost Your Chances – Recruit a new member and receive 10 extra entries into the gift basket drawing!
Your membership helps preserve Kennebunkport’s history, and with exciting milestones ahead—America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and KHS’s 75th anniversary in 2027—now is the perfect time to be part of our mission.
Drawing takes place on March 31st!
Feeling lucky? Check our website on March 1st to join, renew, & refer!
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KHS VISITS
VICTORIA MANSION:
SHARING IDEAS & INSPIRATION
Recently, members of the Kennebunkport Historical Society—including Board members, staff, docents from the Nott House, and members of the education committee—had the wonderful opportunity to visit our neighbors at Victoria Mansion in Portland, ME.
During our visit, we exchanged ideas and learned about their incredible work in preservation, collaboration with local schools, tour programming, and holiday events. We also explored how they research and develop special projects that bring the mansion’s history to life. It was an inspiring and insightful experience!
We encourage you to visit Victoria Mansion when they open for the season and discover more of Maine’s historic treasures. Who knows—you may even find new connections between our pasts!
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A FRESH START:
JANUARY CLEAN-UP
& ORGANIZATION
January was a time for tidying up and getting organized at the Kennebunkport Historical Society, and we couldn’t have done it without our amazing volunteer team! Thanks to their hard work, we tackled major projects, including organizing the attic of the Nott House after Christmas Prelude, sorting the vault at the schoolhouse, and refreshing the archives.
Keeping our historic spaces well-maintained is no small task, and we are so grateful for the dedication of our volunteers who help us preserve and protect Kennebunkport’s history. Thank you for all you do!
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A LOOK BACK AT PRELUDE 2024
This past Christmas Prelude was nothing short of magical! From our....
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annual Champagne Kick-Off Party at the Nott House to... | |
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a bustling craft fair under the heated tent, | |
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Guests enjoyed....
Christmas concerts,
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and the ever-popular cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, the holiday spirit was alive and well at KHS. | |
a spirited mansion decorating contest, | |
and walking tours with historian Sharon Cummins, bringing history to life amidst the twinkling lights. | |
Our wreath decorating night out, sponsored by Wallingford Farm, added a hands-on holiday touch, | |
while our Christmas Carol Sing-Along with Patricia Mulholland filled the season with joy and song. | |
A heartfelt thank you to all who attended and supported our events, and a special shoutout to our Christmas party photographer, Chelsea Hamilton, for capturing the magic of the season. Stay tuned for what’s in store for Prelude 2025! | |
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In the last newsletter, we asked 5 questions about local history
and here are the answers:
- What is the oldest commercial building in Dock Square?
- The building is now occupied by the Copper Candle and once served as the Perkins' West Indies Trade Company.
- Before becoming Graves Library, name two other ways the building was used in history.
- The Graves Library was once Kennebunkport's first bank, and then it served as the customs house.
- What was the name of the vessel that was considered, “the worst local shipwreck in Kennebunkport”. It happened in 1842 and crashed on the rocks by what is now the Cliff House.
- The Isadore, all 15 souls aboard perished. It was a local tragedy, indeed.
- What year was prohibition voted into law in Kennebunkport?
- Kennebunkport voted to restrict alcohol on April 1st, 1833. In 1851, the state of Maine prohibited alcohol. It became national law in 1920.
- What does the word Wabanaki translate to in English?
- Wabanaki translates to, "People of the first Dawn"
New Questions:
The following trivia question answers can be found by reading Sharon Cummins’ Throwback Thursdays: https://kporths.com/from-our-collection/
- What historic Kennebunkport building, now a museum, was once home to generations of the Perkins-Nott family?
- In the 19th century, Kennebunkport became a popular destination for wealthy summer visitors. What form of transportation helped establish it as a resort town?
- In the 1800s, what type of sea creature was so abundant in Maine that it was once considered a food for the poor and even used as fertilizer?
- What famous Kennebunkport parade, known for its quirky and creative floats , was started in the 1970s and became a beloved local tradition?
- During prohibition, what illicit active was rumored to take place along Kennebunkport's rugged coastline, making use of hidden coves and inlets?
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WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT OUR MISSION | | | | |
