BETHEL — The Bethel Historical Society has announced that, thanks to its members and friends, the $10,000 matching challenge made by BHS trustee Michael S. Stowell for new and increased Annual Fund gifts in 2014 has been met.

Representing just over 30 percent of its yearly income, the Annual Fund allows the society to sustain daily operations and offer ongoing programs and exhibits about Bethel and the surrounding region.

Founded in 1966, the Bethel Historical Society is the largest and most comprehensive historical organization in its region. With over 800 members, the society fosters a sense of place — with a focus on western Maine and the White Mountain region of Maine and New Hampshire — by collecting, preserving, displaying and interpreting historically significant artifacts and documents for residents, visitors, students and scholars.

In 1974, the society acquired the 1813 Broad Street residence of Dr. Moses Mason, which contains a nine-room period house museum, exhibit hall and research library.

In 1999, the society added the adjacent O’Neil Robinson House (1821) to its facilities to house changing exhibits, a museum shop and administrative offices. For nearly a half century, the Bethel Historical Society’s achievements have been recognized by a number of state and national organizations.

For more information on the society, visit bethelhistorical.org.

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