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OUTDOOR SPORTING HERITAGE MUSEUM
This planned 2,000 square foot rustic log building is dedicated to all
those who have contributed so much to the region’s traditions, values
and now, to those committed to the future. The Rangeley Outdoor
Sporting Heritage Museum will house the finest and largest collection
of Carrie Stevens flies in the world,
outstanding examples of Herb Welch
mounted trout and salmon, scores of his wonderful paintings and
sketches, his hand tied flies, sculptures, carvings and many personal
items. Also view an authentic 1920’s double-ended Rangeley Boat made
for the Upper Dam pool, photos and information on the steamships that
plied the lakes, transporting guest from the narrow gauge railroad to
camp or hotel, some operated by Captain Fred Barker.
Enjoy the ambiance of an early sporting camp when you enter the
welcome center, featuring a mount of an 11-pound brook trout caught in
1897 at Upper Dam. Then begin your journey through the chronological
sporting history of the region’s people, places and events, starting
with the Native Americans who fished and hunted this area. Learn about
the early role of the Oquossoc Angling Association to develop and
protect the area’s fisheries; the impact of the construction of Upper,
Middle and Lower Dams; the role of the Kennebago Tribe of gentlemen
anglers. Hear the tall tales of Ed Grant,
“The World’s Most Truthful Man” as he discusses his famous “tame
trout”. Learn how “sports” reached the Rangeley region, the impact of
Dams on the fisheries, the Kennebago Tribe of gentlemen anglers, the
formation of the Rangeley Guides’ Association, fly rod building, and
fly tying.
The museum will not only preserve historically important artifacts and
memories, but it will be a major visitor attraction for the Rangeley
Region, and be a way to help educate residents and visitors
(especially youngsters) on their heritage. Your financial support will
ensure that this dream becomes a reality in the near future
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