About Us

The Sanford Historical Committee was formed as a committee of the (then) Town in 1927 to acquire, preserve, and display items of historical significance to Sanford and Springvale. The Committee’s efforts have resulted in a large collection of artifacts, manuscript materials, historic glass plate negatives and printed items representing nearly every facet of the city’s history.

The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society, was incorporated as 501 c3 non-profit in 2005 for the purpose of creating a Historical Museum for Sanford and Springvale. That year, the Society received title from the city for the former Town Hall in Springvale, a historic building built in 1873, and after extensive renovation and work was opened as the Historical Museum in 2006. In conjunction with the Sanford Historical Committee, the Society collects, preserves, and displays artifacts, documents, records, photographs and other materials and objects of historical interest to the city. The society makes its collections available to the public and offers educational opportunities through museum open hours and special tours for schools and other groups. It encourages interest in history through its newsletter and public lectures and offers a concert series to enhance the community's cultural life.

The *Edmund E. Goodwin *House next door to the Museum, was acquired by the Society in 2014. A classic Queen Anne style home with many unaltered features, both interior and exterior, the house is considered an architectural gem. It and the Museum are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The maintenance of the Museum, the Goodwin House, and the work of the Historical Society are supported by a modest annual city appropriation, revenue from Historical Society memberships, individual contributions including a significant endowment from the Virginia Morin Trust, and special fundraising events.