BETHEL — Since 1966, the Bethel Historical Society has sponsored special summer events that enrich the lives of Society members, local residents and visitors from around the world. Thanks to the generosity of many individuals, these events are made available to the general public free of charge.
This summer, the organization will again host Bethel’s Fourth of July Community Picnic and Concert, featuring a free two-hour performance by the Portland Brass Quintet. The program begins at 11:30 a.m. on the grounds of the Dr. Moses Mason House, 14 Broad St., or at the Middle Intervale Meetinghouse if the weather is inclement.
The next day, July 5, the Society will open a new exhibit titled “Stitched Together in Time and Place: Valentine Family Quilts.” Held in conjunction with the recent dedication of the Mary E. Valentine Collections Wing at the Robinson House, this colorful display will feature a variety of quilts dating from the 1860s to the 1970s that were once owned or made by members of the Valentine family of Bethel.
During the exhibit run, selected portions of the documentary film “Why Quilts Matter: History, Art & Politics” will be shown (acquisition of this film has been made possible by the Florence Bickford Hastings Traditional Crafts Fund). The exhibit will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 5 and 6 during the Bethel Art Fair; thereafter, it will be on view Thursday through Saturday, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Mason House.
On Saturday, July 26, the ever-popular Yankee Brass Band returns to the Bethel Historical Society for a free concert starting at 2 p.m. This unique band includes approximately 20 to 25 members who perform with period instruments, authentic reproductions of 19th century “uniforms” and historically informed arrangements of music from the second half of the 19th century. Performances last about 50-75 minutes without intermission.
In order to cover the expenses of these events, the Society welcomes tax-deductible gifts in any amount. Contributions may be mailed to the Society at P.O. Box 12, Bethel ME 04217 or dropped off at the Robinson House during regular open hours, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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