The Ellsworth Historical Society
welcomes you to learn more about our community’s past
In 1978, a notice in the Ellsworth American invited those interested in forming a local historical society to meet at the First Congregational Church. Following that meeting, the approximately 50 attendees decided to meet again, and the first official meeting of the Ellsworth Historical Society was held on May 22, 1978.
The purpose of the Society is to promote interest in the city’s history as well as to collect and preserve documents and books, photographs, other graphics, maps, oral history, advertising paraphernalia, clothing and fabrics, household items, farming and industrial equipment, and other items from the history of Hancock County Maine’s shire town—Ellsworth.
The Society also conducts research, produces newsletters, and gives presentations on aspects of Ellsworth history. We engage in restoration and digitization of material such as antique glass plate negatives and photographs.
The Ellsworth Historical Society is an all-volunteer organization; there is no staff. We depend on our officers and members to conduct all the archiving of our collections, maintain our properties, plan and oversee events, and—most significantly—respond to the many questions and requests the Society regularly receives via email and phone.
As long as there are residents of Ellsworth and surrounding areas who are excited about the past centuries of this land and her people, the Society will be here to serve them. And as long as there are people living away who miss their Ellsworth home, the Society will be here to help them keep their memories alive.
The Ellsworth Historic Preservation Commission
The City’s Historic Preservation Commission is practically a sister organization to the Historical Society and partnered with us in 1978 to save the old Hancock County Sherriff’s home and jail from demolition.
Woodlawn Ellsworth
For several years, Woodlawn invited the Historical Society to include a holiday tree in their annual gallery of decorated trees (since discontinued). Woodlawn often supports our social media efforts.
DCG Architects
Ellsworth architect Carla Haskell has been a resonant voice in historic preservation in the City and has supported the Historical Society with her experience and training.
Ellsworth High School Alumni Association
The Historical Society supports Alumni Association president Michael Povich’s project to interview and film Ellsworth residents that have reached the age of 90 years.
The Ellsworth Public Library
The Library has invited the Historical Society to collaborate on numerous presentations and projects, including the State Street walking tour and Ellsworth’s state bicentennial planning.
Heart of Ellsworth
The Ellsworth Historical Society continues to work with the organization to celebrate and strengthen the downtown.
The Ellsworth Garden Club
The Society has partnered with the Garden Club throughout the decades of its existence and recently completed a State Street walking tour brochure that highlights historic architecture and the trees that line the street.
Downeast Scenic Railroad
Downeast Scenic Railroad offers a special look into the old railway into downeast. We are fortunate to still be able to travel this old route with Downeast Scenic Railroad and have the opportunity to learn its story.
The Old Creamery
If you’re interested in antiques, Tim Torrey is your guy! We’re grateful to have Tim and the Old Creamery in our community, and our Old Creamery archive collection.
Friends In Action
Friends In Action is the perfect social opportunity and wellness support for retirees and we LOVE working with them to engage Ellsworth’s elders!