Reflections on Connections to Our Town

Our son recently got married and his mother and I enjoyed a wonderful weekend making memories with family and friends sharing good times.  I continue to be pensive and thoughtful (more than I normally am!) since that day, and I keep coming back to the realization that I’m a lucky person.  Lucky to live in the town I do, with the people that I do, and to have a lifetime of connections with both.  In my work at the historical society that sense of good fortune is imprinted many times.  So often I have had the chance to see or handle something that is a physical example and reminder of our shared past, and with all the oratory eloquence my hard-earned associates degree provides I exclaim…”That’s cool.”

Holding one of the earliest documents our town has, from before it was even a town, or an old painting created by a local character, or a mast hoop from a sailing vessel built in Harpswell.  Even things that by some standards aren’t necessarily considered “old”.  A color image from the 70’s that shows the hair styles, corduroy pants, and pork chop sideburns that were the norm then stirs me to dig deep with something as descriptive as “That’s really neat”.

It’s tough though.  How do you describe something as intrinsic as the connection a person has to their town?  Anyone can hold examples of our history, can listen to what went on in our past, and even listen to music composed by people who were deeply moved by our town.  But it’s the stirring within that impresses us to make such exhortations as eloquent as the ones I do.  We have a mission statement that describes what we as stewards of our town’s history strive for, but on the most basic level I want people, when they have the chance to share in what the Harpswell Historical Society has to offer, to feel that same sentimentality I do.

It’s with that wish in mind that I encourage you to take advantage of our offerings.  Come to the museum when it’s open, or, if you have a specific need, to reach out.  We are always happy to accommodate people and share what we have by appointment.  Attend one of our three talks a year, come to the reading of the Declaration of Independence next fourth of July at the Old Meeting House, or come to the tree lighting ceremony this coming Christmas season at Centennial Hall.  Perhaps you’ll find yourself so moved to exclaim, “That’s terrific!”

October 24, 2026