Lincoln County Historical Association (LCHA) members and their guests enjoyed a perfect summer evening on the grounds of the Pownalborough Court House in Dresden last Saturday. The newly refreshed grape arbor, lush with fruit, and the 18th century period garden were particular areas of interest. Inside the building, guests mingled in the historic tavern and viewed the old courtroom and private family rooms.

For many attendees, the event was a vivid reminder of the importance of historical societies in maintaining historic places for the benefit of current and future generations. Built in 1761, Pownalborough Court House still stands on its original site on the banks of the Kennebec River. It is a remarkable example of colonial New England architecture. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

The court house served as a tavern, a place for church services, a dancing school, and as the Dresden Post Office from 1807-1855. In addition to its vital role in the legal history of Lincoln County and Maine, the court house was also a family home. In 1761, Captain Samuel Goodwin, an original Kennebec Proprietor and captain of the guard at Fort Shirley, moved his family into the court house where they and his descendants lived until 1954.

Located at 23 Court House Road off Route 128 in Dresden, Pownalborough Court House is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Hours are Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, noon-4 p.m., also Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. during July and August. For more information and driving directions, visit the LCHA website at www.lincolncountyhistory.org.