Exhibits
Current Exhibits
Bethel and Beyond
A permanent exhibit in the Robinson House
"Bethel and Beyond" is our flagship, permanent exhibit on the history of Bethel and the surrounding region. This exhibit currently includes a chronological journey through Bethel's early history and will soon be expanded to include three themed exhibit halls focusing on aspects of the region's history such as culture, work, and travel.
Brave Flight Across a Sea's Expanse: Madge Carey and Her Shell Collection
On view May 26, 2026, through October 9, 2026 in the Huntoon Center, Robinson House
This exhibit will feature a selection of shells from the extensive personal collection of Madge Carey, a Bethel woman who later relocated to New York City, where she worked as a typist and child care provider. A self-educated woman of many interests, "Miss Carey" read extensively and took pleasure in collecting. This exhibit will also feature a selection of Carey's poems, which were written and submitted to the Lewiston Evening Journal while she was still a young woman living in Bethel.
Oxford County Skiing History: From Jockey Cap to Jordan Bowl
On view until further notice in the Robinson House
On view in the “Western Mountains Gallery,” this colorful exhibit provided by the Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum traces the roots of alpine and Nordic skiing and ski manufacturing at sites located within or near the borders of Oxford County. Through images, artifacts, and vintage film, the display presents the fascinating story of skiing history in the highlands of western Maine.
Dr. Moses Mason House Period Rooms
Open in July and August; Thursday and Friday, 1:00 to 4:00 PM; Saturday, 9:00 AM to Noon; other times by appointment
One of the finest Federal style residences in its region, the Dr. Moses Mason House was constructed in 1813 on a spacious lot facing onto the common at Bethel Hill village. Click here to learn more.
Upcoming Exhibits
Connected by a Thread: 250 Years of Stitching Community
On view July 2, 2026, through August 29, 2026 in the Howe Exhibit Hall, Mason House
This exhibit will feature a selection of quilts from the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society collection representing different periods and events in United States, Maine, and local history, with a special emphasis on collaborative quilts and quilts made for special occasions. The centerpiece of this exhibit will be the new Maine semiquincentennial commemorative quilt, “We Are All Connected by a Thread,” which is being created by several of Maine’s quilt chapters under the direction of MBHS trustee Donna Gillis. Also on display will be Donna’s impressive “Honor the Brave” quilt, created in 2015 to honor veterans of each of America’s wars. The exhibit will include an interactive feature where visitors of all ages can try their hand at various quilting techniques!
Historical Commemorations Past and Present
On view July 2, 2026, through October 9, 2026 in the Robinson House
The 250 anniversary of American independence is the latest big anniversary in our nation’s history. This exhibit will offer a look back at how Bethel and the surrounding region celebrated earlier national and local milestones, including the American centennial of 1876 and bicentennial of 1976, town and county centennial celebrations, and anniversaries of other major events.