BETHEL – With just a few days to go, the 2005 Bethel Historical Society’s 2005 annual fund passed the $24,000 level with more than 425 donors.

Anyone wishing to make a tax deductible contribution in any amount before the end of the year is asked to send it to P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217.

With more than 1,300 members, the Bethel Historical Society, founded in 1966, is western Maine’s largest full-time historical agency, collecting, preserving and interpreting the regional past.

For nearly 40 years, the society’s activities have included lectures, exhibits, special events, heritage festivals, workshops, conferences, school and educational programs and publications.

In 1974 the society acquired the former Broad Street residence of Dr. Moses Mason, which now contains a period house museum, exhibit hall and research library. In 1999, the society opened the O’Neil Robinson House (next door at 10 Broad St.) to the public for an expanded exhibit program, museum shop space and administrative offices.

More information about the society and its activities may be obtained by calling 824-2908 or 1-800-824-2910, e-mailing info@bethelhistorical.org or visiting www.bethelhistorical.org. The mailing address is P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217-0012.