RUMFORD – The Rumford Historical Society met Sept. 21 with Doris Bourret as the speaker, describing the Catholic Church history in Rumford, specially St. John’s Church, which is celebrating its centennial year.

She described the years since the cornerstone was laid in 1905 and how they met in the basement until the structure was completed in 1928 when the first Midnight Mass was held in the present sanctuary. She told of the Catholic school that was organized and taught by Nuns until 1984 when lay teachers took over.

Society President Bill Weston reported that the Lufkin School Museum had been open every Saturday during the summer, staffed by volunteers. More than 120 people signed the guest book, about half from the local area.

Weston gave special recognition to Myrtle McKenna for her work in setting up the exhibits. He also thanked Nghia Ha and David Gawtry for maintaining the grounds. The museum is closed but will be opened by special request of any group who would like to visit.