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Save Our Library Campaign

 

In 1884, the Washburn brothers built a magnificent gothic structure at Norlands as a lending library for their community.  In 1885, more than 5,000 people came to the dedication ceremony presented by Elihu Washburn and Abraham Lincoln's first Vice-President, Hannibal Hamlin.

The library now houses a vast collection of books, dating back to 1770.  The library also serves as a repository for Washburn family papers and personal artifacts.  In their collection are letters from Ulysses S. Grant, the personal accoutrements of Civil War Surgeon, Freeland Holmes, official documents signed by Abraham Lincoln and William Seward, a Gettysburg battlefield map signed by General George Meade, journals and ledgers from Washburn & Woodman of Mineral Point, WI, and other items of equal historic value. 

We need your help to preserve this historic landmark and the treasures contained within.  In conserving this structure, we safeguard America's history and the records of those individuals who made significant contributions to our heritage.

The 1884 slate roof is in desperate need of over $100,000 in repairs.  As shown in the pictures above, water has seeped through the roof and has damaged the interior plaster, now steadily flaking from the lathe overhead. 

Contributions would be welcome for this project and can be mailed in attention to: The Library Fund, Washburn-Norlands Living History Center, 290 Norlands Road, Livermore, ME 04253. 

Web site questions and comments may be sent to

 webmaster@norlands.org

 

Washburn-Norlands Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization

 

Copyright

Washburn Norlands Living History Center

Washburn Norlands Foundation, Inc.

290 Norlands Road

Livermore, Maine 04210

Volunteer Drive

Our organization is primarily volunteer driven, much thanks to the many individuals, businesses and other organizations who make it possible for the Washburn-Norlands Living History Center to operate today.  We are always looking for new volunteers for a wide array of tasks within our organization.  Our volunteers currently oversee planning processes, event hosting, daily farming activities and grounds keeping and much, much more.  If would like to become a volunteer please contact us to discuss your interests and  abilities.

Third Century Capital Campaign

The Third Century Campaign marks the continued commitment of the Board of Trustees, Staff, Volunteers and the Community toward the preservation of the Washburn-Norlands Living History Center.

The campaign celebrates the 200th anniversary of Israel Washburn’s purchase of the land on Norlands Road, in Livermore, ME.  On this land, he raised a family that rose to national prominence.  Although the family faced adversity, they overcame each obstacle to become stronger and more united.

In that, the Washburn-Norlands Foundation holds to the example of the Washburn Family.  We have overcome adversity, and have come out stronger and united in our mission to safeguard this site for the benefit of the people of Maine.

We invite you to become a part of this historic and significant journey