DEAR SUN SPOTS: There’s an old, arched bridge on Chestnut Street in Lewiston that crosses one of the canals. I noticed today that it is called Wiseman Bridge. Who was Wiseman? — Steve, no town

ANSWER: In March 2014, Sun Journal freelancer Dave Sargent wrote a thorough, fascinating story about this historic bridge and the Lewiston mayor and respected physician for whom it was named. (https://www.sunjournal.com/2014/03/11/river-views-wiseman-bridge-historic-two-reasons/)

Wiseman Bridge is one of only two known remaining rainbow arch bridges in the entire state. And there are only a few in the country. Built in 1927, it was dedicated to Dr. Robert J. Wiseman, the first mayor of Canadian heritage.

According to an archived Lewiston Evening Journal profile, Dr. Wiseman, born in 1871 in Quebec, was of Irish and Scottish descent and was orphaned at an early age. He attended school in Lewiston and he worked in a one of the mills when he was 13. He went on to work in a drug store before graduating from Bates College in Lewiston and later from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, earning his medical degree.

I’m always impressed by these stories. There is so much to the history of Lewiston and Auburn and I can’t help but feel awestruck and grateful for all these people who were instrumental in making Lewiston and Auburn what they are today.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Do you have names of local repairmen who work on stoves and microwaves? I need both repaired. The instruction booklets were no help at all. — Sue, Lewiston

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ANSWER: In the Rolodex I have Brown’s Appliance (https://www.brownsapplianceservices.com, 212-3444; The Appliance Guys (https://theapplianceguys.business.site/, 440-4265; Brooks Appliance & Repair, 713-6221; and Wayne’s Appliance Repair, 225-2966.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have a vintage mirror in need of repair. It’s rectangular and has rounded corners. It was used by my mother on a buffet table in the dining room. The green felt backing has lifted and the back, with a dark paint, has been peeling or flaking off for years. Would you know of anyone who does this type of glass restoration? — No name, no town

ANSWER: Jim Nutting at Maine Art Glass may be able to help you or at the very least, point you in the right direction. He has been restoring all types of antique glass for years. His website is https://maineartglass.com and his number is 353-6700. Maine Art Glass is in Lisbon Falls. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday.

Another place to get advice is Thomas Johnson Furniture Restoration in Gorham. (https://www.thomasjohnsonrestoration.com, 222-2266).

Portland Glass (https://www.portlandglass.com/) may also be able to help you. The Lewiston location is at 865 Lisbon St. The store is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The number is 250-5965.

I’m compelled to add that if you or someone you know wants to tackle this project, there are do-it-yourself videos available on YouTube. And readers, if you have a recommendation, please write in.

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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