This is the golden year that the Boothbay Region Historical Society is celebrating its 50th year anniversary. Since no anniversary is complete without a party, the society is hosting a gathering at its museum on Sunday, Aug. 6. The celebration will kick off at 1 p.m., rain or shine, and go until 4 p.m. The public is invited to share in this occasion and both members and non-members are welcome at no charge.

Founded in 1967 by a small group of residents interested in pursuing, preserving and advancing the region’s history, the society has steadily grown over the years and now boasts a museum which is home to thousands of items. There are a number of items on display, including artifacts, maps and memorabilia of local significance, in the six rooms of the museum which at one time was the 1874 home of Elizabeth F. Reed. Located at 72 Oak Street in Boothbay Harbor, the museum will be open for the festivities.

Two special exhibits are currently on display in addition to the permanent exhibits. The first of these exhibits is the “Lost at Sea” exhibit, which tells the story of local men and boys who lost their lives while working at sea during the 19th century. The other exhibit is “Focus on 50” and was organized specifically to celebrate the society’s 50th anniversary. Chosen by volunteers, trustees and well-known local historian Barbara Rumsey, each artifact in this exhibit tells its own story but also demonstrates the wide variety of items in the museum. Be sure to go upstairs where there are several more rooms full of articles that are part of the “Focus on 50” exhibit.

On the adjoining side yard, known as Fullerton Park, society volunteers will be serving cake and ice cream throughout the afternoon. Charlie Bamberg's vintage 1957 pumper truck will be on display, which most recently served the Smithfield, Maine, Volunteer Fire Department and music will be provided by Ben Betts on his guitar and steel drums.

All are welcome to join us for this free anniversary celebration on Aug. 6 at the society’s museum at 72 Oak Street where there is plenty of nearby parking. For additional information, please call the BRHS museum at 207-633-0820 or visit our website at boothbayhistorical.org. Or find us on Facebook at Boothbay Region Historical Society.