The Gorham Historical Society archives now have a long-term home in the barn at Cherry Hill Farm, near the intersec- tion of Routes 25 and 237. This leased space is owned and maintained by the Shaw Brothers Family Foundation. It is located in the recently reconstructed historic barn that had stood nearby for almost 200 years, near the spot where a self-storage facility is now located.
Since moving to the new location earlier this year, the society has continued to make its extensive collection of historical materials available to students, history researchers, genealogists, and the general public. This collection includes historic town records and other public documents; personal letters; family records; historic photographs; and many other types of artifacts.
Due to lease restrictions, visits to the collection now need to be pre-arranged, and need to take place at times when the archivist can be present. There is an eventual plan for the archive to once again have regularly scheduled open hours, but so far, a start date has not been determined due to staffing issues.
The Historical Society has recently started having open house events at their new location. They have seen an increased number of people who are interested in learning about the organization, as well as several new members. The society’s annual meeting is now planned for 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 6, and will take place in the barn at Cherry Hill Farm. It is open to the public, especially those who are interested in learning about joining.
In the meantime, those with questions about the historical society can phone or text its president, Suzanne Phillips, at (207) 523-0682, or archivist Kelly Dearborn, at (207) 831-4220.