DEAR SUN SPOTS: We are a small group of Turner residents attempting to preserve some of our town’s heritage. There are two small replicas of buildings that were once a large part of our town.

One is the Turner Center Creamery, which started as a cheese and butter factory. In 1888, the butter productions and sales exceeded 450 pounds. Later these two products were abandoned and the building became a first-class facility for producing cream. After operations were moved to Auburn in 1893, the building had various owners then burned in 1993.

The other building is a replica of the North Turner Covered Twin Bridge built in 1828 at a cost of $5,000. In 1839, it was swept away by a great freshet. It was rebuilt and later replaced with two steel bridges.

These two replicas were built for the Turner Bicentennial in 1986 and then placed on land in Turner Center for the public to enjoy.

They were repaired once and are again in need of repair. This time, however, we would like to see a structure built to house them and keep them out of the elements. To cover the costs, we’re asking for donations to fund this project. We are also looking for people who can help bring this project to fruition.

Donations may be sent to the Turner Museum and Historical Association, 98 Matthews Way, PO Box 502, Turner, ME 04282. Please note the purpose on your check.

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For inquiries, please contact Diana Sennett Richardson at 225-3294. We are hoping that future generations can enjoy and gain knowledge of what these buildings meant to the heritage of our town. — Sharon, Turner

ANSWER: This sounds interesting! Please keep us posted. Our readers will want to follow along as the project evolves. May the perfect people step up to assist you.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I missed the column about the St. Philip Church Fair and have items to donate. Please print the information again. — Carol, Lewiston

ANSWER: A few other readers have asked me to repeat this Oct. 7 Sun Spots. There’s so much going on right now as the holidays loom that it’s easy to lose track of all the activities.

St. Philip Church at 2365 Turner Road in Auburn is having their Christmas by The Lake Fair on Saturday, Nov. 20. We’re looking for donations for the Hidden Treasures Booth.

Drop-off dates for donations will only be on Saturdays, Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30, and on Nov. 6 and 13 from 9 a.m. to noon, or after Sunday Mass from 10:30 a.m. until noon. These will be the only times items will be accepted.

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To help ensure cleanliness and protect the health of our volunteers, please refrain from donating any of the following items: used fabric/remnants, blinds, shades, curtains, clothing, electronics, broken or soiled items, tapes, records, used or partially burned candles, bedding, soiled, stained tablecloths, dirty glassware/dinnerware, broken or soiled toys, used medical equipment, tires, items stored or packed in damp or mildewed boxes, including books, outdated or unsafe cribs or car seats, and large, bulky furniture.

Remember, if you are organizing a fundraiser, or are involved with a nonprofit that needs anything, write to Sun Spots!

For more information or questions please call Leo at 577-7424.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.


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