Museum in the Streets is a network of heritage discovery trails founded in 1996 by Cushing resident Patrick Cardon. The self-guided walking tours teach people about area history through a series of panels located at places of historical significance.
A local Museum in the Streets project is underway, thanks to help from fundraisers and local sponsors. Town staff recently began to install the poles for the 29 panels that will be included in the project. The walk is expected to be completed next month, and the goal is to have the panels up and ready in time for the Old Orchard Beach Community Friendly Connection’s community event on June 16, said Associate Town Planner Megan McLaughlin.
The walk will highlight areas, buildings and events of historical significance in the downtown and Ocean Park areas, including Town Hall, Saint Margaret Church, The Pier, auto races held at the beach and the 1907 fire.
“We marvel at the wonders that attract residents and tourists to the community of Old Orchard Beach. Now we see it in the panels situated throughout town which promote history and tradition and links us together as a united community by a familiar thread,” said Assistant Town Manager Louise Reid.
McLaughlin said the Museum in the Streets, or MITS, project will benefit the town in many ways.
“It’ll put our history out into the streets and encourage residents and visitors to visit the historical society and libraries for more information,” she said. “It’ll encourage them to use the many resources we have to offer in town.”
McLaughlin said the Museum in the Streets walk can also be used as a destination for field trips to teach students about the town’s history.
She said the walk will also generate commerce and encourage people to visit local businesses while they’re in the area looking at the panels that will line the downtown.
“MITS has already benefited the town by bringing everyone together for one common goal of bringing our history to the street,” she said.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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