If you were ever even a little bit interested in “the way things used to be,” you really should visit Southport Historical Society’s wonderful collection of unique treasures at their home base museum. The historic 1810 museum building (Cameron House) was moved to its present location at 419 Hendricks Hill Road, from its original location on Ebenecook Road on Southport. The museum is open to visitors from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday in July and August with expanded Saturday hours during September.
This is a pretty special place staffed by local volunteers and director Bruce Joule. Quite possibly you might land in time for a personal tour guided by well-informed local docents who can help you get the most out of your visit, answer questions and take your money! Just kidding. There is no admission fee, but contributions are welcome to help maintain the buildings and make improvements.
One of the coolest things about the museum is that the permanent items (except for one) have been donated by members of the community who have family connections to the island. For example, Jean Luther Thompson 1924-2024), was involved in the museum before it was moved to its present location in 1988. Jean’s links to the community ran deep through her Marr and Pierce roots, and she worked diligently to preserve pieces of island history that were slowly disappearing. Through her steadfast support and interest, the early collection was cataloged and organized for displays and tours. Jean retired from active volunteering in 2019 at the tender age of 95!
Southport Island’s history is very directly linked to the fishing industry and many items and displays at the museum emphasize this. The main house is full of interesting items that tell wonderful stories about life in our past 200 years, but a significant part of the collection relates to the important role of ocean work. Two exterior buildings hold a collection of early gear and boats. These items are housed in recently modified buildings that allow for a more open, visitor-friendly environment. Often you may catch local resident Gerry Gamage sharing stories about early fishing techniques with associated nets, lines and tools. For many early island residents, fishing was the primary source of income and Southport crews were among the leading harvesters of cod, herring, pogies (Menhaden) and mackerel.
In addition to the permanent collection, director Joule and staff try to add new displays and items of interest each season. This year’s exhibit will focus on the role of fishing and its impact on the growth and evolution of Southport. Also, with a generous gift from Mr. Mel Rines, interactive touch screen displays have been installed at the museum. These screens allow visitors to view physical and archival exhibits not otherwise easily accessed in displays.
The museum is a great resource for our communities, offering a glimpse into a rich and diverse past. Although this museum primarily deals with Southport, it offers a glimpse, in general, into Maine’s history. The unique nature of this collection allows us to get a real feel, quite literally, for the lives of those who have gone before us and their lasting impression. Stop in for a visit. You will not be disappointed.