The Center for Moosehead History: A Community Treasure
The Center for Moosehead History is a cherished historic building located in downtown Greenville, overlooking picturesque Moosehead Lake. For well over a century, this landmark has been a cornerstone of the region’s culture and history, hosting generations of families and countless community events. Today, under the dedicated stewardship of the Moosehead Historical Society, it features captivating historical exhibits, serves as a vibrant venue for historical programs, and houses the headquarters and administrative offices of the Society.
A Building with a Rich Legacy
Constructed in 1904 as a 60’ x 40’, two-story structure, the building was originally dedicated as the Universalist Chapel. It served as a place of worship for the Universalist congregation until 1930, when it was sold to the Ready Workers Society of the Union Evangelical Church. Under their care, the building was transformed into a multi-purpose facility with a kitchen and dining hall on the first floor and a large meeting hall with a stage on the second floor. It also took on a new name—the Community House—which locals still use to this day.
For the next 75 years, this vibrant venue hosted a myriad of community programs and events, from dances and dinners to concerts, plays, weddings, and more. These activities made the Community House a beloved landmark, fondly remembered by residents and visitors alike as a place of celebration, connection, and pride.
Preserving a Piece of Greenville’s Heritage
In the early 2000s, the facility faced an uncertain future when the Ready Workers Society could no longer maintain it. The property was at risk of being lost to private investors or demolition, threatening Greenville’s cultural heritage. Recognizing its significance, the Moosehead Historical Society stepped in and acquired the property in 2005.
Over the next two decades, the Society undertook an ambitious restoration project to preserve and enhance the Community House. This included transforming the old dining area into museum space, upgrading the outdated furnace with propane heaters, adding a handicap-accessible bathroom on the first floor, and continuing to host events in the meeting hall. From art exhibits to school proms, the building continued to be a space for community engagement.
A New Chapter: The Center for Moosehead History Today
In 2024, we embarked on an inspiring new chapter by relocating our administrative headquarters to this cherished historic building, ensuring year-round accessibility and breathing new life into the Center for Moosehead History. Over the summer, we undertook a comprehensive restoration of the entire facility, and the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the revitalized museum spaces on the first floor, where we’ve enhanced exhibits to better celebrate the rich tapestry of the Moosehead region’s heritage. Upgrades throughout the building—including new lighting and climate control—have greatly enhanced comfort and usability for all who visit.
The second-floor auditorium, once the bustling heart of community gatherings, has been meticulously restored. Freshly replastered and painted walls and ceilings radiate renewed elegance. New fans and lighting beautifully illuminate the space, and the integration of a heat pump ensures comfort in every season. The original wooden floor has been lovingly refinished, and we’ve replaced the century-old wooden benches with new padded chairs, blending historic charm with modern comfort.
Our members and guests have been astonished by these stunning improvements, often sharing how the revitalized Center still feels like the community gathering place they’ve always cherished.
With our offices now nestled within these historic walls, we’re more connected to the community than ever before. The enhanced spaces make the Center better equipped to serve and engage with everyone who walks through our doors.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re unveiling newly refreshed exhibits, including the captivating Moosehead Aviation Exhibit and the poignant B-52 Plane Exhibit, which commemorates the 1963 crash and its profound impact on the region. The revitalized Center is now a versatile space for programs, meetings, and special events, fostering a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere that honors both our history and our future.
Visit Us and Be Part of Our Story
We invite you to visit the Center for Moosehead History and experience the rich tapestry of our region’s past and present. Whether you’re exploring our exhibits, attending an event in the beautifully restored auditorium, or simply soaking in the historic ambiance, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
