The Grist Mill Museum closed for the season on October 1. The sunny day brought out 12 visitors who enjoyed viewing the “old stuff” and being reminded of the way life used to be. About one hundred of Mr. Whitney’s students toured the museum in September for their classes.

Other visitors have been seeking their ancestors and have been delighted with the information and photos we have been able to share. We are also assisting with research for a book about the 22nd Maine Regiment in the Civil War, which had 32 men from Dexter in its ranks. High school students are doing a cemetery project for Mr. Whitney’s class and consulting our records for information about the people commemorated by the gravestone they chose.

Several interesting photos have been donated recently: a hand-colored view of Moosehead Lake from the Call Studio, a framed view of the Oliver farm on the Charleston Road from the late 1880s, a family grouping of Charles and Sarah Lea Cloutier, with their eight children and finally a group of postal workers from about 1955.

The Abbott Museum and gift shop continue to be open Monday through Saturday from 10 to 4 for browsers, shoppers and researchers. Our 2006 calendar featuring photos of Dexter’s woolen mills is still available.

The next historical society meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 19 at 7:00 PM in the Crawford Conference Room at the Abbott Museum, 12 Church St. All are welcome to attend. For information call 924-5721.