History: The Castine Historical Society was established in 1966. The Historical Society purchased the Abbott School in 1994. The Abbott School was built in 1859 and was an active school until 1961. In 2008, the Historical Society purchased the Grindle House. The Grindle House was built in 1850 by Samuel P. Grindle, a local ship carpenter.
Collections and Highlights: The collection includes photographs, artifacts, maps, books, paintings, and historical documents. Artifacts in the museum include musket balls, 1779 Penobscot Expedition items, British occupation items from 1814, buttons, and more. Photographs include over 100 A.H. Folsom Castine streets and landmark photos. Past residents' photographs and photos of Castine events throughout the years round out the collection. Letters and diaries dating back to the mid-19th century are also part of the collection. Yearbooks and school records date back to 1869. Newspapers from The Castine Gazette, The Castine Visitor, The Eagle, The Columbian, and The Christian Register are part of the collection. There are maps from the 18th to the 21st century and town records from the 18th to 20th century. The library holds about 600 books about the history of Castine and the surrounding towns, including 200 volumes of rare books.
Exhibitions, Events & Programs: The Historical Society holds special exhibits that change yearly. Exhibits have included a Clark Fitz-Gerald exhibit of sculptures, a Penobscot Expedition 1779 exhibit, a Bicentennial Quilt exhibit, ship exhibits, and more. Check the website for upcoming exhibitions and events.
Tours: Walking tours of Castine are offered from June to October. Check the website for more information regarding tours.
Season/Hours of Operation:
- Abbott School
- High Season Hours: Open June to September -Â Monday through Saturday, 10 AM - 4 PM; Sunday 1 PM - 4 PM
- Fall Season Hours: September to October -Â Friday, Saturday, and Monday, 10 AM - 4 PM; Sunday 1 PM - 4 PM.
- Winter Hours: Closed from mid-October to the beginning of June.
- Grindle House - Open by appointment only
Admission: Free
