Dear Editor:

Again, we are thankful to be living in a community that values the history and the art of our artists of by-gone days! Last spring when Milling Around closed, we wondered if we would find a new home for our sixty-five year old, Maurice Jake Day Christmas Windows. Thankfully, the First National Bank stepped up and answered our prayers!

The windows have had quite a history. After being displayed at the Day homestead for almost four decades, they were bequeathed to the Farnsworth Art Museum. In 1998 the windows came home to Damariscotta, and for many years during December, lit the windows of Pap’s beloved Day homestead. Several years later, they needed a new home. Thankfully, until this year, Ann and Dirk Poole graciously displayed them in the windows of Milling Around and the Chamber of Commerce.

Once Milling closed, John Roberts, windows custodian extraordinaire, approached the leadership of Damariscotta’s oldest independent bank, The First National Bank, established May 30, 1864. After all the bank advertises, “dream first and go from there.” Bank executives quickly agreed to host the eight dioramas in their historically significant firehouse building. The location proved fabulous with limited sunlight, large clear windows, and ample parking. Pap’s vintage windows in a vintage location, we were thrilled!

The First National Bank’s commitment as noted on their website, “To stay committed to our core values of community and community service,” made it possible for you to again see Pap’s Christmas gifts to the people of Maine including: the “Cabin” nestled deep in the Maine woods, the “Three Bears” heading home, the precious “Barn” birthplace of Jesus and five more Christmas scenes.

Our deepest appreciation is extended to The First National Bank for sharing their beautifully renovated building! We hope bank employees have heard the stories and felt the appreciation that the Day family has felt over the years.

Hope to see you next year!

The Day families