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| The
program topic is "Social Thomaston - History of Clubs, Fraternal Orders
and other Key Events." Did you ever wonder how Thomaston residents of yesteryear spent their leisure hours? There were no RVs, few pleasure craft, no amusement parks and few lakeside tent or cottage rentals. Winters were long and cold. Not many had the luxury of long-distance transportation in the days of horse and carriage or even the days of the horse less carriage. Social clubs came into being early on, covering activities for almost everyone, ranging from gardening to intellectual book and history clubs. There were numerous fraternal and church organizations in addition to card playing, theatrical and cooking clubs. You name it and they had a name for it. There was even a Friday Club. We wonder if this was a forerunner of TGIF. Join us at our next meeting to learn about the many clubs and social activities of 19th and early 20th century Thomaston, long before the intrusion of television, movie theaters, home videos and computers. Neighbors associated with neighbors on a weekly basis and community activities were well supported. Just as today, there was a lot of activity. The major difference is that it was centered throughout the village. Wouldn't it be nice to bring back that way of life? The Thomaston Historical Society is located to the east at the foot of Knox Street. The building will open at 7:00 p.m. to allow for refreshments and social exchange prior to the meeting. Anyone wishing to learn more about early Thomaston is encouraged to attend. The permanent exhibit from the Maine State Prison is on view on the second floor of the Historical Society's building, the Knox Farmhouse. The regular hours to visit the museum in addition to the meeting times are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays between 2 and 4 p.m. or by appointment. For questions about the Society's membership, activities, exhibits or the House Plaque Program, please call 354-2314 or 354-2611. |