The Maine State Museum serves as one of the leading such institutions in the state and displays collections and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Maine.
The Maine State Museum falls under the Maine State Museum Commission, which is a semi-independent entity that was formed in 1966. The Museum has been in its current home in the Maine State Cultural Building since its construction in 1971, and the Museum was accredited by the American Association of Museums in 1975.
In addition to its many visiting and long term exhibits the Maine State Museum has three areas of collections: history, prehistory and natural science. These three fields form the bulk of the Museum's focuses.
Selected Maine State Museum images:
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Plan of the British and American positions, Aroostook War, 1843
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T & K Sportsman's Friend, ca. 1900
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Zippo for the Mosquito, ca. 1900
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Pack basket, ca. 1920
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Sarah Gilbert, Portland, 1829
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Proclamation honoring Samantha Smith, 1983
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Portrait of Cornelia "Fly Rod" Crosby, 1894
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Portrait of Sir William Phipps, ca. 1691
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Lighthouse Keeper, Manana Island, 1898