The Dexter Historical Society held a workday at the former Abbott Mill office building on Saturday, November 3, to continue cleaning and removing unnecessary items preparatory to beginning some of the repair work. This building, which was also the 1836 Town Hall, was recently donated to the society by Guilford of Maine. After repairs and renovations it will become a multipurpose facility, entitled the Abbott Museum, and will house a gift shop, conference room, research and genealogy room and several exhibit areas.

The Dexter Historical Society newsletter has been released. It announced the establishment of donor levels for assisting the work on the Abbott Museum. Rooms may be purchased for $5,000 a room, with the donor's name on a plaque in the room. Individual donations to the whole project may be made at levels of $1,000, $500, $250 and $100. These names will also be on a plaque in the finished building.

The newsletter also announced the annual membership drive and several items available for sale. The 2002 Calendar features photos of Dexter garages, filling stations and auto dealers from 1904 - 1960s. This theme corresponds with the new exhibit mounted at the Grist Mill Museum. Bicentennial items, such as the commemorative coins, the afghan and wooden blocks depicting Dexter buildings are still available.

A new display has been arranged in the Dexter Print Shop window in the Millside Building. It features photos from the woolen mill industry as well as many of the items the society has available for sale. These items can be purchased at the Millers House (behind the Grist Mill Museum) from 1 - 3 PM, Monday - Saturday until Christmas. Arrangements may also be made by calling 924-5721, 924-3043 or 924-3443.

The next meeting of the Dexter Historical Society will be on Wednesday, December 12 at 7:00PM in the town council chambers.