The Kennebunkport Historical Society announced that it will host a lecture on the Great Fire of 1887, delivered by guest lecturer and local firefighter, James M. Stockman. The lecture will be held at the Town House School at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, and 7 p.m. Thursday, July 25. The event is free and open to the public, with donations appreciated.

According to a news release, Stockman has been an integral part of the Kennebunkport firefighting community for the past 45 years and will share his extensive research and knowledge on the history of firefighting and the impact of the 1887 fire on the town. Stockman began his firefighting career in 1977 when he purchased Cape Hardware and joined the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Company. Over the years, he has held various positions, including lieutenant, captain, assistant chief, and training officer. On the administrative side, he served as secretary and president.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Stockman back to the Town House School and are most interested in finding out more about this devastating fire and how it changed the way fires were fought in our town,” said Kristin Haight, executive director of of the historical society, in an email.

Since the formation of the Kennebunkport Fire Department in 2005, Stockman has served as safety officer No. 8, a title he currently holds. In addition to his firefighting duties, he runs his own company, J & M Lighting Design, Inc., the first firm in Northern New England to offer specialized lighting and theatre design services. He also serves as chair of the board for the Kennebunkport Emergency Medical Service, Inc., the local nonprofit ambulance service.

Stockman’s lecture will delve into the history of the Great Fire of 1887, its impact on the town, and the evolution of firefighting techniques in Kennebunkport.

For more information, contact the Kennebunkport Historical Society at 207-967-2751, info@Kporths.com or
visit www.kporths.com.