CALAIS (AP) – A museum in Calais that showcases the cultural heritage of easternmost Maine won’t open its doors this summer after four years of financial struggles.

The Downeast Heritage Museum’s board of directors made the decision after reviewing the museum’s financial difficulties.

The museum opened in 2004 amid the celebration of the 400th anniversary of the St. Croix Island settlement. But it has struggled to remain afloat after predictions of a flood of tourists for the St. Croix celebration failed to materialize.

Executive Director Jim Thompson said the museum’s problems stem from a lack of sufficient operating capital from the day it opened.

The museum board is examining its options on what to do with the museum building. A decision is expected within a few months.

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Information from: Bangor Daily News, http://www.bangornews.com

AP-ES-06-02-08 0646EDT