Art, strawberries and a committed group
of local preservationists are among the entities that support one of the oldest
and most historically significant houses in the lakes region. Built in 1812 and
now listed on the Historic Register, Hawthorne House, located in Raymond at the
corner of Cape and Hawthorne Roads, was the childhood home of famed 19th
century writer Nathaniel Hawthorne. The two story Georgian/Federal hybrid style
house is being preserved by the non-profit Hawthorne Community Association, a devoted
group of neighborhood citizens and others “from away” totaling nearly 150
members.
Repairs and maintenance on a historic
house can be costly, particularly when they are carried out in the “period
correct” manner. And that is where the fundraising comes into the picture. John
Manoush, an association trustee said at least three important events are
scheduled for this summer.
On Saturday, June 25 beginning at 6:30
p.m., the Association will hold their annual strawberry festival at Hawthorne
House. This year’s speaker is historian Steven Rogers, who will present
original research on the topic of Nathaniel Hawthorne and the Shakers. The
program will be followed by a social hour and homemade strawberry shortcake.
“It’s local strawberries, fresh whipped
cream and homemade shortbread,” said trustee Melanie Champniss. Coffee and
punch are included. Donations are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 8
years. All proceeds go to preserve and maintain Hawthorne House.
On July 15 and 16 (Friday and Saturday)
the association will host a first ever art show and sale at the historic house
from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Several local artists will present for view and for
sale several forms of art. Jessica Bates will feature her line drawings, quash
and poster-sized tapestry photographs. Libby Welch will show landscape and oil
paintings. And Sharon Renk will present watercolor paintings of land and
seascapes. Other artists are expected to participate. The event is free.
Trustee Champniss said “Hawthorne House
is still vital,” and sponsors many events throughout the year including book
club discussions. Patrons should also check local newspapers and the
association website for the date and location of the annual chicken barbecue.
Nathaniel Hawthorne, author of several
American classics including The Scarlet Letter
and House of Seven Gables spent summers at the Raymond house from age 9
until he entered Bowdoin College in 1821, about 8 years. He is known to have
hunted the area and fished Sebago Lake and Thomas Pond. In later years he wrote
in a letter to his sister, “I shall never again run wild in Raymond, and I
shall never be so happy as when I did.”
Manoush said the Hawthorne family moved
to Salem, Massachusetts following Nathaniel’s graduation from Bowdoin in 1825.
The house became a tavern on the local stagecoach line. At some point in the mid-19th century until
1921 it became a church meeting house. In that year the Hawthorne Community
Association was formed for the purpose of preserving the historical
significance of the property.
For more information on the house, its
history and fund raising events go to www.hawthorneassoc.com.
In the Photos:
John Manoush, Melanie Champniss and Basil Champniss pose with
"Nathaniel" at Raymond's Hawthorne House on Raymond Neck. Visitors
can sometimes get their picture taken with the famous author, but apparently he
is unavailable for book signings.
