BETHEL – Since 1993, the Bethel Historical Society has hosted a community picnic celebration on the Fourth of July at its Regional History Center. Everyone is invited to come to the grounds of the Dr. Moses Mason House at noon on July 4 and bring a lunch to sit and enjoy a two hour brass band concert by the Portland Brass Quintet.

In case of rain, the picnic and concert will be held in the Middle Intervale Meeting House, the town’s oldest religious structure dating back to 1816.

The event harkens back to the days of Dr. Moses Mason when the Doctor opened his grounds in the 1850s to the public who they were entertained by patriotic speeches and brass band music.

Sponsors for this popular event are still welcome. To become a sponsor, send a tax deductible contribution in any amount to the Society at P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217.