MECHANIC FALLS – In an effort to generate more interest in local history, the Mechanic Falls Historical Society will hold an exhibition of historical data and material from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 26, at the Mechanic Falls Public Library. The event hopes to achieve two major objectives: show off the town’s contribution and record of existence and entice more people to join and participate in the society’s endeavors.

The society hopes to become a principal caretaker and foundation of Mechanic Falls historical data. Eriks Petersons, one of the primary organizers in forming the society, said, “But in order to collect, preserve and educate the value of local history, people must be involved.”

“History is fun and fascinating – and people like to know about the town they live in. What people did 30, 50, 100 years ago or more. What the make-up of the town was then as opposed to what it is today and why and how it’s become what it is today. We should ensure and encourage that kind of knowledge.”

The exhibition will be held in conjunction with the annual Mechanic Falls Library book sale, which be held across the street at Veterans Park – rain or shine.

On Thursday, June 7, at 7 p.m. the society will host a discussion on the Evans Rifle Co. in the Municipal Building downstairs gym. Paul Cote of Oxford will present a history of “one of the most unusual yet least known rifles of the 1870s.”

The Evans rifle was patented by Norway native Warren Evans. In 1871 Warren and his brother, George, began the “only mass producer of firearms in 19th century Maine,” housing the factory in Mechanic Falls.

During its short but illustrious life the Evans rifle competed against the likes of the Springfield and Winchester rifle companies for government contracts.

Cote will showcase a couple of Evans rifles, its ammunition and how the rifle worked – and discuss the company’s marketing schemes involving Kit Carson and Maine’s own Joshua Chamberlain, Civil War hero and governor.

Contact Eriks or Nancy Petersons at 345-3134 or [email protected] for more information.