Chinese New Year, celebrated today, provides an opportunity to recognize the surprisingly long and rich history of the Chinese in Maine.
The history itself is fascinating, as has been the process of its discovery. Until recently, few people were aware that Chinese had been living and working in, and contributing to, communities throughout the state since the mid-19th century--not just in cities, but also in smaller towns and rural parts of Maine, like Cherryfield, Rumford, and Skowhegan. Former MHS trustee Gary Libby got on the case, and, through tenacious research, found and documented the stories of the many Chinese people living in Maine communities.
This online exhibit provides a broad introduction to the experience of Chinese Mainers. Read more.
Please join us to celebrate and hear the story behind Maine Historical Society's publication of A Maine Prodigy: The Life and Adventures of Elise Fellows White. White was a violinists from Skowhegan whose musical talents and adventuresome spirit took her around the country and abroad in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This new book has been compiled by Dr. Houghton White from her autobiography, diaries, letters, and photographs, now part of the MHS collections. A Maine Prodigy was edited by MHS's Candace Kanes, who also wrote the introduction. White and Kanes will share background on Elise's life. Purchase the book.
To see a full list of the many other programs coming soon, please click here.
