BETHEL —   Founded in 1966, the Bethel Historical Society is one of the most active historical organizations in its region. Through its exhibits, programs and publications, the society strives to make the area’s past meaningful, accessible and enjoyable by collecting, preserving, displaying and interpreting historically significant artifacts, photographs and documents.

But, with a staff of only one full-time and one part-time employee, volunteers are necessary.

If not for the work and financial support provided by hundreds of volunteers over a period of nearly five decades, the society would not have achieved its current level of activity and status.

The presence of volunteers at both of the society’s buildings on Broad Street has been particularly noticeable this summer, especially in light of the special exhibition of White Mountain art in the Mason House exhibit hall.

In addition to those who volunteer to help with daily operations, the society benefits from the time and expertise of individuals who serve on its board of trustees and/or on one or more of its board committees.

Assisting in the Mason House this season are Jan Stowell, Tineke Ouwinga, Dean and Priscella Walker, Sally Taylor, Rachel MacKay, Pauline Applin, Ginny Gamble, Karen Bean, Grace McKivergan, Polly Davis, Becky Kendall, Rosemary Bunn-Laban, Walter Hatch, Peggy Wight, Cathy Newell, Ginger Kelly, Eric and Lucia Schwarz, Lucy Nordahl, Tim and Iris Roberts, Ann Holt, Lynne Kulik, and Jackie Bell.

Serving as guides in the period house museum: Allan Marcotte, Savannah Sessions, Karen Bean, Nancy Mercer and Jim Macgregor.

Carrying out research projects and assisting others in the Spidell Research Library: Barbara Honkala, Mary Ennis and Warren Stearns.

Conducting group walking tours: Stan Howe and Ginger Kelly.

Museum shop: Grace McKivergan, Cayte Vogt, Tammy MacDormand, Jean Owen, Vicki Smith, Becky Kendall, Bettyann Hastings, Musa Brown, Arlene Lowell, Donna Douglass, Rachel MacKay, Barb Dion, Pauline Applin and Lucy Nordahl.

Mary Ennis and BHS Registrar Jackie Bell have been accessioning and cataloging collection items.

The Bethel Historical Society’s annual meeting will take place at the Dr. Moses Mason House at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12. Members will vote on revisions to the society’s bylaws, and new trustees and officers will be elected.

FMI: 207-824-2908 / 800-824-2910 / Fax: 207-824-0882 / www.bethelhistorical.org