A remarkable collaboration among historical societies, museums, preservation organizations, Lincoln County government, and the Lincoln County Regional Planning Commission has resulted in a new set of tools designed to help residents and visitors explore the rich history of Lincoln County. 

Now available online, the new Historic Sites of Lincoln County, Maine StoryMap brings together dozens of historic sites, museums, and cultural destinations in a single interactive resource. Users can explore significant locations across the county and learn about their historical importance. It is available free of charge to the public at http://bit.ly/LCMEHistory. 

The StoryMap also features a calendar of countywide history-related events including lectures, exhibits, tours, open houses, educational programs, and other special events offered by participating organizations throughout the year.

Complementing the online resource is a beautifully designed color printed map and events guide. Available free of charge at many museums, historical societies, town offices, chambers of commerce, visitor centers, and other public locations throughout the county, the guide provides an easy way to discover regional historic destinations and upcoming programs.

Funded by Lincoln County and developed with the encouragement and leadership of County Administrator Carrie Kipfer, the project brought together a wide range of organizations dedicated to preserving and sharing the region's history. The many participating organizations are listed in both the printed guide and the online StoryMap.

The project benefited from the talents of many individuals, in particular Becky Schaffner of the Edgecomb Historical Society, who used her skills and expertise to create the StoryMap, and Jean Wilhelmsen-Exter of the Westport Island History Committee, who lent her abilities to design the printed brochure and guide. Mary Ellen Barnes provided project leadership and coordination.

Lincoln County Historical Association Executive Director Shannon Gilmore said, "This project represents an incredible collaboration between organizations with similar missions that are eager to share Lincoln County's history with the public. We hope these new resources help people explore the many historic sites throughout the county and discover the places and stories that have contributed to the growth and character of our remarkable region."

The initiative comes at a time of reflection on our nation's history in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The project also coincides with Lincoln County's hosting of a stop on the Declaration of Independence Tour, when the historic document will be on display July 24–25 at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in Boothbay. These opportunities invite residents and visitors to contemplate Lincoln County's past and its connections to the broader history of America.

These new resources demonstrate not only the county's historic treasures, but also the dedication and cooperation of the many organizations, community members, and volunteers committed to preserving them for future generations.