The mission of this Center is to preserve and enhance western Maine and New England heritage for current and future generations and to provide a continued educational experience of the traditional arts.
In September of 2004, Julie & Carl Lindberg purchased the two-acre property at 67 N. High Street in Bridgton, Maine fronting on Route 302, the major east-west highway in southern Maine. Their intention was to preserve the Rufus Porter murals in the house and create a museum of his work. Julie & Carl knew that if their dream was to become real, local support would be necessary. A couple of open houses later, a core group of dedicated volunteers was formed.
To date, the group has received 501(c)3 status from the IRS, created By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation, elected a Board of Directors, filed Incorporation papers with the state of Maine, constructed a parking lot and renovated the property, and has applied for several grants.
The museum opened in June 2005 on a limited basis with volunteer docents.