PARIS — The ‘2025’ Commemorative Paris Hill Egg has just been released for purchase. The behind-the-scenes story of these eggs appears in the latest edition of the Oxford County Chamber of Commerce magazine “Oxford Hills.” Every year, the egg features an image of one of the historic buildings on Paris Hill. This year’s egg, designed by local artist Alexandra Thompson, depicts the original Oxford County Court House, circa 1815. It served in its governmental capacity until the county seat moved to south Paris in 1895. It is now a private residence.

This year’s egg is dedicated in memory of Ben Conant, revered historian and curator of the Paris Cape Historical Society. Ben, with his photographic memory, chronicled the history of Oxford County and beyond, preserving legend and lore for future generations. He was always willing to share his vast knowledge of the area with anyone who reached out to him. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

The proceeds of this year’s egg will support the Paris Cape Historical Society and the Paris Hill Historical Society, both nonprofits that benefited from Ben’s wealth of knowledge and expertise. The hope is that both societies will work together to formulate a program that will enhance, enable, and encourage the growth of both societies and protect their collections well into the future.

These societies have found it a challenge to continue to remain relevant and functioning however through perseverance and the dedication of their volunteers they are looking forward to securing their role in preserving and renewing interest in our local history.

Wells Wood Turning & Finishing, located in Buckfield, manufacturer of the White House Easter Eggs is the same company that makes the Paris Hill eggs for this fundraiser. It’s a bonus to purchase the eggs locally and support a local business.

For a donation of $10 to the non-profit organization ‘Paris Cape Historical Society,’ you will be presented with the 2025 “Paris Hill Egg”, the fourth egg in the collectible series. Handmade wooden egg stands are available for $2 to showcase your commemorative egg. Eggs and stands can be purchased at Speedway, Inc. in Oxford or by contacting Linda Richardson at cozycider@gmail.com. Place your orders early so the eggs can be delivered before Christmas /Easter. The purchase of the Commemorative Paris Hill eggs helps to restore and protect our historic legacy ‘One egg at a Time’.