Brunswick’s Pejepscot History Center is investing in the future of history | Column

Pejepscot History Center Launches $2 Million Capital Campaign to Expand Accessibility and Community Outreach

Brunswick, Maine – The Pejepscot History Center, home to two historic museums on Park Row, is raising $2 million to transform its facilities and broaden its educational reach. The “Building Connections: Opening Doors to Our Community” campaign, already on track with $1.4 million in pledges, will fund a series of upgrades designed to make the center more inclusive and welcoming for visitors, scholars, and residents alike.

A Vision for a More Accessible Museum

At the heart of the campaign are five key projects. First, a new, fully ADA‑compliant entrance on the museum’s north side will feature a gently sloping ramp, automatic doors, and a larger reception area. The goal is to eliminate barriers for people with disabilities and streamline visitor flow.

Second, the center plans to create an enclosed passageway linking the Pejepscot Museum and Research Center with the historic Skolfield‑Whittier House Museum, allowing guests to move between the two sites without leaving the building.

Third, a permanent orientation exhibit will give newcomers an overview of the region’s history and the center’s collections, while flexible display spaces will enable rotating exhibitions to showcase new research and artifacts.

Fourth, the campaign will provide additional spaces for community‑building events—such as lectures, workshops, and special gatherings—strengthening the center’s role as a civic hub.

Finally, upgraded storage and archival areas will support the preservation of the center’s growing holdings and improve access for researchers.

A Deep‑Rooted History in Brunswick

The Pejepscot History Center has long highlighted the broader historical significance of Brunswick beyond two of its most famous figures. The town’s past is intertwined with the national story: Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin (1852) amplified the abolitionist movement, while Civil War hero Joshua Chamberlain’s leadership at Gettysburg helped turn the tide for the Union. Executive director Larissa Picard, who has led the center for the past 11 years, reminds visitors that Brunswick’s heritage also spans shipbuilding, textile manufacturing, and ties to the slave economy.

“The story of Maine is the story of our country,” Picard said. “History is about telling stories, and we try to tell those stories. After all, we are humans, not robots. History is not all black and white; there can be darkness underlying the stories.”

Educational Programs and Community Events

In addition to its exhibits, the center offers a robust slate of programming. Guided summer walking tours explore the city’s historic streets, while prepared talks cover subjects ranging from the literary history of the region to immigration narratives, slavery, and abolition. These talks can be customized to the needs of schools, community groups, or private organizations.

The center’s educational outreach extends to all grade levels, with structured programs that align with state curricula. Over 5,000 visitors come each year to the three museums, and nearly 2,000 attend public programs, underscoring the center’s role as a regional educational resource.

Upcoming special events include a Thanks‑For‑Giving Member Party on November 20 and Santa Day on December 5, both aimed at fostering community engagement and supporting the center’s mission.

Community Support and Next Steps

The campaign’s progress is a testament to the strong community support for preserving Brunswick’s heritage. With $1.4 million already secured, the center’s leadership is optimistic about reaching the $2 million goal, which would unlock the full vision outlined above.

“We want to create an environment where people can learn, explore, and connect with our shared past,” Picard explained. “By improving accessibility and expanding our space, we’ll open doors to our community in new ways.”

For those interested in learning more about the campaign or contributing, details can be found on the Pejepscot History Center’s website, pejepscothistorical.org.

The Pejepscot History Center is located at 8 Park Row, Brunswick, Maine.