The Union Historical Society Headquarters (Robbins House on the Union Common) 343 Union Road in Union Maine, is usually open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 9:00 to Noon, or by special appointment. Please call (207-785-5444) before you come, since volunteers may not be available on that particular day. If you wish to make an appointment, you can call or email us at unionhis@hotmail.com, or write to us at Union Historical Society, P. O. Box 154, Union, Maine 04862.

The builiding is equipped with broad-band wireless connectivity, and there is plenty of space for you to check your mail or conduct your personal research. Our curators will be happy to assist you whenever able.

Thanks to the Board of the UHS and to every member for work, interest, and attendance. As Sinatra sang, it’s been a “very good year.” Elaine Tracy has contributed a huge number of hours as our Treasurer over a period of nine years. A special thank you! Phyllis, as Secretary, continues years of note-taking and thoughtful written communication with guest speakers and donors. Great job!

This year curators Suzy and Nick (with much help by the Wednesday Group) have refitted themselves into a new office, received a large quantity and variety of donations, produced newsletters and a web-site, hosted a summer intern, welcomed and helped numerous visitors, and accomplished many

Membership exceeded 280 and we again began this year with over 250 paid members. Bonnie, thank you for your important help. Members ARE the Society!

Programs remain a focus and a draw. We learn much together; curiosity is good. Special thanks to Alison for her leadership in this, and the PR written so well. Nick, thank you for the tech support.

This building (OTH) has been the scene of fine programs, renters’ good times, improving gardens, and excellent care. More improvements are coming. Thanks, Jack and Donna. Cobbs Ledge, across the street from the OTH, has been much improved by increasing openness of its top. Thank you to Lee MacFarland and Dan.

Major changes occurred at our Robbins House in 2011, following the moving-out of Union’s Vose Library with whom we shared since the 1970s. Changes included development of the curators’ office and display areas, a first floor A.D.A. compliant restroom, new carpeting, improved heat and electrical service, research and computer facilities, gardens, and other more minor things. Special thanks to Lewis Merrifield and his crew, Jamie Metcalfe, Hank Walker, Kay Santorineos, the curators, and the original ideas committee- Herb Griffin, Ragan Cary, Suzy Shaub, Nick Santorineos, and Dave Shaub. Costs were

Book sales have been rather slow this year, but the personal care provided by Dan and Connie to stores, individuals, and Amazon customers have pleased our customers and generated crucial income. Thank you! Relationships with other groups have stimulated all involved. We stay in close touch with area small historical societies, the Matthews Museum, UACOC, Union’s Select Board, the Vose, Union Fair, and associations of societies and regional organizations.

We’ve had ten programs, board meetings, Founders Day and many smaller gatherings that have resulted in a viable society with many more such years to come. Thank you all. Is this the year that you will become more involved? I hope so.

Dave Shaub November 2, 2011

On Saturday October 29 Scouts and leaders of Union's Boy Scout Troop 207 worked under the direction of Eagle Scout candidate Peter Thompson to install steps and a safety railing at the Old Town House. This was the second step in Thompson's 3-part Eagle Scout project to improve safety and accessibility at the historic structure, built in 1840 and now owned by Union Historical Society. The first part, already completed except for electrical hookup, was the installation of electrical conduit leading to a new lighting pole at the end of the parking lot farthest from the building. On Saturday the crew leveled and smoothed the wide grassy steps leading from the building to the parking lot. At the same time they installed edging for the steps and a sturdy handrail to make climbing them easier. A second team cut and installed a trellis backing for the railing of the handicap accessible ramp to the building's side entrance. The top of the ramp is next to a steep drop off Cobb's Ledge, on which the building sits, creating a safety risk for young children who might climb on the railing. The railing and trellis were extended beyond the ramp to block access to the drop-off. The third part of Thompson's Eagle project, to be undertaken on Sunday November 6, will be to raise and level the brick walkway in front of the building. The Old Town House is used by Union Historical Society for their public program meetings and is also in demand for rent as a function facility. The Society is delighted by the better lighting and safer access which this project will bring, and gratefully thanks Peter Thompson and the Troop 207 crew.

Work crew from left: John Wood, Peter Thompson, Mike Thompson, Wyatt Adams, Mark Corson, Gino Ames, Grant Bodine, Steve Billiat, with Caden Billiat in front.

Railing crew from left: Gino Ames, Grant Bodine, Scoutmaster Joe Murphy, with Wyatt Adams in front