The “cat is out of the bag!” Our surprise has become public and we are excited to announce that the Androscoggin Historical Society will be moving to a new home….more accessible…more visible…and better situated to serve the communities of Lewiston and Auburn and Androscoggin County. Below is a letter sent to our members which will give you some important details. We are looking forward to input and support from the communities as we take this exciting step!
To all Members of the Society,
Season’s Greetings to each and every one. The Board of Directors wishes you a safe and happy holiday season and a bountiful new year.
In the spirit of giving, the Board has a unique gift for you this year, which we hope will be universally perceived as a great opportunity for new growth in our society.
After two years of deliberations and exploration, we are extremely pleased to tell you that we are moving into the first home we have owned in nearly 100 years of existence. On January 3rd, we are scheduled to formalize the purchase of 93 Lisbon Street in Lewiston. Currently the Law Offices of Murphy and Coyne, the two-story building is located between Rainbow Bicycle and the District Court in the first block of Lisbon Street.
After 85 years on the third floor of Auburn’s County Building, the collection has outgrown the available space. Access to the building has been limited and parking has long been problematic. For these reasons and others. AS has been considered the area’s “best kept secret”.
Although the move will be bittersweet, relocating across the river has many advantages. With a much greater exposure, we expect many more people will discover the benefits that you have already recognized through your involvement and support.
We will soon be announcing the inauguration of a one-year, $500.000 Capital Campaign. Success will allow us to enter our centennial year (2023) in the same financial position we left 2021 but with the added asset of our own home. the first in our history. We are pleased to report that. even prior to starting the campaign, anonymous donors have pledged over $52,000, the majority of which will be used as matching funds to encourage contributions.
We on the Board are excited and daunted by this major development. It is a fearsome
undertaking, but we are bolstered by the knowledge that our members will be energized and eager to assist in this transition. We need volunteers for myriad tasks, from packing, moving, and reshelving books to determining how the new space will be most effectively utilized. If you, or anyone you know, would like to participate in this adventure, please call 784-0586 or email info@androhist.org.
We hope you consider this welcome news and that you will want to become involved in this exciting new chapter of the Androscoggin Historical Society.
May your holiday season be filled with joy.