ABOUT US
In April 1975, the Westbrook City Council’s Planning and Development Committee announced a public meeting for anyone interested in forming a historical society. Then-Alderman-at-Large Roger Knight, who chaired the committee, explained that the meeting was prompted by growing concern over the lack of a dedicated space to preserve Westbrook’s historical relics and artifacts — and the absence of an organization to take on that responsibility. Many residents shared this concern. Among those who stepped forward and became founding members were Nancy Curran, Ellie Conant Saunders, Jim and Vaun Born, and Phil and Nancy Spiller Sr.
From that meeting, the Westbrook Maine Historical Society was born. It was first housed in the old Westbrook High School on Main Street, where a growing collection of artifacts and ephemera began to take shape. After the high school, the Society moved to the American Legion Hall on Dunn Street, continuing to expand its work and outreach. Its final move brought it to its current home in the Westbrook Community Center at 426 Bridge Street, where it remains committed to preserving and sharing the city’s rich history.
OUR MISSION
The Westbrook Maine Historical Society is dedicated to bringing together individuals who share an interest in our city’s rich history by discovering, collecting, and preserving artifacts and materials that reflect Westbrook’s heritage. All museum items are available for public viewing or research at the Society’s location. To further promote local history, the Society hosts public meetings, marks historic buildings and sites, and utilizes various media channels to share stories from the past. Board meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month and are open to the public. In addition, free presentations by guest speakers take place in the Oak Room at the Westbrook Community Center on the first Saturday of every month at 1:30 p.m., except during June, July and August.
Meet The Team
Debra Shangraw
President
Mark Swett
Vice President
Lisa Glidden
Treasurer
Patti Swett
Secretary
Christine Johnson
Member-at-Large
Diane Dyer
Member-at-Large
Phil Spiller
Member-at-Large
Wayne Chick
Member-at-Large
In Memoriam
As we carry forward the work of the Westbrook Maine Historical Society, we pause to honor those who came before us—founders, presidents, vice presidents, and countless dedicated members—who gave their time, energy, and hearts to preserving our city’s rich and varied past. Their vision laid the foundation for everything we do today. From cataloging forgotten records to opening our doors to the public, each act of service was a gift to the future. We remember them not only for what they accomplished, but for why they did it: a love of community, a respect for history, and a belief that our shared story is worth preserving. These individuals—and many more whose names may remain unsung—have shaped the Society into a vibrant keeper of Westbrook’s story. We remember and thank each of them for their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering belief that the past matters as much as the future.