The Raymond/Casco Historical Society recently met at the Raymond Library. Alvin Hamblen Morrison, Ph.D., ethnohistorical anthropologist and historical society member gave an interesting talk on the prehistoric Indian “artifact” collection donated to the the historical society by a former Raymond resident. The collection is being photographed, documented and safely stored until such time a permanent Raymond-Casco Museum is established.
The historical society’s plans for next year include a collected history of all the historical homes in Raymond and Casco with view to publishing a book showing photographs and the history of the property. It is hoped that the sale of this book will help raise funds for the group.
The Raymond-Casco Historical Society was formed in 1971. The society’s main focus is recording the history of Raymond, established in 1805, and Casco, which separated from the town of Raymond in 1841.
During its first year of existence, the historical society became the recipient of an historic schoolhouse. It was donated by Hacker Hall and Leona Hall Edwards. The 1849 Friends Schoolhouse was moved from Quaker Ridge to Casco Village in November 1971. It is located behind the Casco Library. In 1996, the Friends Schoolhouse was entered on the National Register of Historic Places. During Casco Days last July it was opened for the public to visit. In the warmer weather you may visit the schoolhouse by calling Anne Miller, Schoolhouse Custodian at 627-4989. Next spring the historical society has plans to invite local schoolchildren to spend a morning in the one-room schoolhouse to see what it was like going to school in Casco in 1849.
As with all non-profit groups we are continually looking for funds. Especially this year as our one-room schoolhouse is in need of some considerable repair. As it is the season for giving we are asking that you consider a tax-deductible gift to the Raymond Historical Society.
If you are interested in keeping the past alive we welcome your gift and hope that you will join us as we endeavor to document and preserve the history of Raymond and Casco. Membership dues are only $10 per individual or $15 per family. Please make all checks payable to the Raymond-Casco Historical Society, P.O. Box 1055, Raymond, ME 04071. For more information visit our web site at www. raymondmaine.org. Link to Historical Society.
-By Anne Miller, custodian of the Schoolhouse
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