The Sawyer House is one of the first structures erected in the Phillips Gore section of Otisfield. This late 18th century chimneyed house may date to the arrival of the property’s first owner, Capt. Jonathan Sawyer, a Gorham Revolutionary veteran who served through the Siege of Boston. Begun at a time when his neighbors were erecting simple log shelters and wood-framed capes, the two-and-a-half story house probably stood unfinished at Sawyer’s death in 1789 and was most likely completed by his son David, who lived here until his own death in 1811. Otisfield Historical Society’s first program for 2023 is set to begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18. Submitted photo

The Otisfield Historical Society’s first program for 2023 is set to begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at the Otisfield Town House, 1905 Bell Hill Road.

Dr. Jean Hankins, archivist for the society, will focus on the early history of the town, covering the period from 1690 to 1803, shortly after Otisfield was incorporated. Her working title, she says, is “Mistakes Were Made,” according to a news release from Maureen Mooney-Howard, society member.

A resident of Otisfield since 1993, Hankins will explain some of the many rules and regulations imposed by Massachusetts on the proprietors who were the first owners of the town and on the settlers who moved in after the Revolution.

Otisfield’s first settler was George Peirce Jr. (1734-1807), a native of Watertown, Mass., who arrived about 1774. He had been hired by the proprietors to serve as surveyor of the new territory. Jean will also discuss the part of Otisfield known as Phillips Gore, and how it became a major part of Otisfield in 1803.

Refreshments will be available after the program.

For more information, call Mooney-Howard at 207-409-7153.

Check out other upcoming area events!