New exhibit at the Chapman-Hall House features clothing from 1750-1830

Wed, 08/15/2018 - 10:30am

The Chapman-Hall House Stewardship Committee announces a new exhibit, Dressing the Chapman Family 1750 -1830. Mannequins dressed in appropriate fashions of the period are arranged in five rooms of the house. Each grouping complements the room’s setting. The exhibit includes a man’s outfit of the early-to-mid-18th century as well as women’s and children’s clothing that would be worn in the years 1750 to 1830. The display includes original and reproduction pieces.

The Chapman-Hall House is the oldest home in Damariscotta. Built in 1754, the house originally overlooked land that was to become Main Street, with a fine view of the Damariscotta River. Nathaniel Chapman’s step-brother Anthony Chapman convinced him that he would find good employment as a housewright in Damariscotta, which was then part of Nobleboro. Nathaniel, aged 50, and his wife Miriam brought six children with them when they moved to the village from Ipswich, Massachusetts.

The exhibit can be seen until the historic site closes for the season on Oct. 8.  Located at 270 Main Street, Damariscotta, the house is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.; admission is $5 for adults; children under 16 free.

The Chapman-Hall House is one of three historic sites under the care of the Lincoln County Historical Association, a nonprofit organization that provides stewardship for the 1754 Chapman-Hall House, the 1761 Pownalborough Courthouse in Dresden, and the 1811 Old Jail and Museum in Wiscasset. For more information about the Lincoln County Historical Association, visit www.lincolncountyhistory.org.