The Museum, listed on the National Register of Historic places, is located at 33 Ledgelawn Avenue, Bar Harbor. The concept which eventually grew to be the Bar Harbor Historical Society originated in the summer of 1945. In that year, a committee was formed from the directors of the Jesup Library. They decided to exhibit old photographs and pamphlets showing the town’s past in memory of George B. Dorr, the father of Acadia National Park, who died in 1944.The exhibit was such a success that when it closed, the committee was inspired to maintain a permanent exhibit of all historical materials relating to the town of Bar Harbor. The exhibit originally opened in the former Children’s room of the Jesup Memorial Library on August 19, 1946. Since then the collection has grown steadily and we gradually outgrew our space. Fortunately, in November 1997 we were able to purchase the building (formerly the St. Edwards Convent) at 33 Ledgelawn Avenue.Through the generosity of the year-round residents and summer visitors we celebrated “burning” the mortgage on December 9, 2000. The many gifts of memorabilia, maps, antique clothing and pictures continue to expand the displays.

From the “Bar Harbor Historic Walking Map”

Societe Historique De Bar Harbor

Ledgelawn Avenue – This Jacobethan Revival-style building is one of the few brick structures in town along with the movie theater, YWCA, hospital and banks. Bar Harbor had no local brick factory, unlike most towns, so many buildings are made of other materials such as wood and stone.

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Bar Harbor Historical Society

Bar Harbor Historical Society

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