PORTLAND — Every Thursday in July, the Maine Historical Society (MHS) will screen a selection of Portland native John Ford’s movies, chosen and introduced by local Ford aficionados. Selections range from classic westerns to celebrated literary adaptations.

“Appealing both to life-long fans and those new to Ford’s work, this series is an ideal way to honor a local hero and celebrate the summer,” an MHS release states.

All screenings will start at 7 p.m. in the Earl G. Shettleworth, Jr. Lecture Hall.

Remaining films in the series are:

— July 19: “The Grapes of Wrath,” (1940)

Based on John Steinbeck’s classic American novel, “The Grapes of Wrath” follows the Joad family’s journey out of the Dust Bowl to California in search of work and prosperity. Introduced by film scholar Juris Ubans.

— July 26: “The Last Hurrah,” (1958)

Spencer Tracy stars as Frank Skeffington, an Irish- American politician loosely based on Boston mayor Michael Curley, in this 1958 political drama. Introduced by Irish Studies scholar Michael Connolly.

Admission to the museum at 489 Congress St., Portland, pays for admission to the films. For more information, call 774–1822 or visit www.mainehistory.org.