Welcome to the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society!

Founded in 1966 at Bethel, Maine (established in 1768 and incorporated in 1796), the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society collects, preserves, displays, and shares the history of western Maine and the White Mountain Region of New Hampshire and Maine through exhibits, lectures, events, and publications.

The Museums of the Bethel Historical Society features over a dozen exhibit galleries and period rooms spread throughout two buildings—the 1821 O'Neil Robinson House and the 1813 Dr. Moses Mason House. In addition, the Twitchell Education Center, a replica of Dr. Mason's circa 1837 private library, serves as a place for demonstrations, children’s programs, lectures, and community events. MBHS also maintains an extensive library and archival collection of books, manuscripts and photographs, plus thousands of historic objects that tell the story of the town of Bethel and surrounding region. Throughout the year, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society provides a full schedule of high quality events for people of all ages. We invite you to support our work by making a donation or becoming a member!

Situated off Route 2, on Broad Street in Bethel, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society is located twelve miles east of the Maine/New Hampshire border. Bethel lies at the junction of Routes 2 and 26; the latter provides easy access from the Portland area via Exit 63 of the Maine Turnpike. Bethel also can be reached on Routes 5 and 35.

Business Partners

We sincerely thank the following businesses, whose investment in Museums of the Bethel Historical Society is critical to the success of our programs, exhibits, educational activities, and publications. Please take advantage of the services they offer and let them know you appreciate their support!