Press Release | For Immediate Release
A Golden Anniversary Celebration for the Poland Spring Preservation Society: Announces Open House Set for May 15–17
Poland Spring, Maine – (April 22, 2026): The Poland Spring Preservation Society invites the public to celebrate a historic milestone during its 50th Anniversary Open House Weekend, taking place May 15-17, 2026.
This special weekend marks the official opening of the 2026 museum season and kicks off a season of celebration honoring five decades of preservation, community engagement, and storytelling. Founded in 1976, the Poland Spring Preservation Society has played a vital role in protecting and sharing the legacy of Poland Spring, including the Maine State Building and All Souls Chapel.
Visitors will also enjoy complimentary admission to all Poland Spring Museums this season thanks to the generous support of Northeast Bank, returning as season sponsor for the third year in a row. Everyone is invited to come and experience the museums for free and learn about the history and legacy of Poland Spring.
Visitors are invited to step back in time and experience the rich history of Poland Spring through a variety of engaging activities and events throughout the weekend.
“This anniversary is not only a celebration of our history, but a tribute to the many individuals who have dedicated their time, passion, and support over the past 50 years,” said Laura Brown, Director of Operations.
“Reaching our 50th anniversary is a remarkable milestone for the Poland Spring Preservation Society. This Open House Weekend is both a celebration of our shared history and a tribute to the dedicated individuals who have helped preserve it for future generations”, said Jim Delamater, President of Poland Spring Preservation Society Board of Directors.
“We look forward to welcoming both longtime supporters and new visitors to experience everything that makes Poland Spring so special.”
Make It a Weekend at Poland Spring Resort
Turn the 50th Anniversary Celebration into a full getaway – make it a weekend at Poland Spring Resort and stay on property for the entire festival of events. Guests can immerse themselves in history, enjoy all weekend celebratory events, and experience the charm of one of Maine’s most iconic resort destinations without ever leaving the grounds.
Guests can choose from three inns and twelve cottages conveniently located on the grounds of Poland Spring Resort.
To mark the occasion, Mel’s Hilltop Restaurant will feature limited-time celebratory specials throughout the weekend, including the “Golden Jubilee Burger” and the signature anniversary cocktail, “The Golden Pour.” These festive offerings give guests a flavorful way to toast 50 years of preservation, community, and tradition.
Weekend Highlights Include:
Friday, May 15 | 7:00 PM
(Doors open at 6:30 PM)
50th Anniversary Concert
All Souls Chapel
37 Preservation Way, Poland Spring, Maine
Live concert featuring Phil House and Kathy Haley at the historic All Souls Chapel. This special evening of music highlights two of the longest-performing and most beloved musicians in the summer concert series. Phil has been part of the series for 30 of its 50 years, and together they have performed at Poland Spring for nearly three decades.
Tickets are $10.00 each; seating is limited. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged. Tickets may be purchased at:
https://polandspringps.org/product/may-15th-concert-with-kathy-haley-and-phil-house/
Proceeds from the concert will support needed funding for the slate roof restoration of the Maine State Building. Any remaining tickets will be available at the door.
Following the concert, guests are invited to gather at the Maine State Building for a reception with punch and cookies – a longstanding tradition of the concert series.
Saturday, May 16 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Open House at the Maine State Building & Museum Sites
37 Preservation Way, Poland Spring, Maine
Spend the day exploring Poland Spring’s historic sites, including the Maine State Building and All Souls Chapel, along with exhibits highlighting the Poland Spring Bottling Museum and the Original Source of Poland Spring Water. Visitors are invited to experience all three museums and take part in a meaningful anniversary tribute.
Saturday, May 16 | 1:30 PM
50th Anniversary Ceremony at the Maine State Building
37 Preservation Way, Poland Spring, Maine
Join us for a special ceremony as we honor five decades of the Poland Spring Preservation Society. This commemorative event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a presentation recognizing 50 years of preservation efforts, remarks from a member of the Ricker family, and reflections from past and current board members.
Past and present board members, volunteers, staff, and supporters are invited to gather for this momentous occasion. Following the ceremony, guests are invited to enjoy a cake and champagne reception – a time to connect, reminisce, and celebrate the community that has made this milestone possible.
Sunday, May 17 | 10:00 AM
Church Service in All Souls Chapel
37 Preservation Way, Poland Spring, Maine
Join us for a special non-denominational church service celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Poland Spring Preservation Society. Led by the Moss Brook Church of South Paris, Maine, this meaningful gathering marks the first public service held at All Souls Chapel in over 30 years. All are welcome to attend.
Connect With Poland Spring Preservation Society:
Online | Facebook | YouTube Channel | Instagram
About the Poland Spring Preservation Society
Founded in 1976, the Poland Spring Preservation Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the unique historic architecture of the Maine State Building and All Souls Chapel, one-of-a-kind structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Maine State Building was originally constructed for the World’s Columbian Exposition held in Chicago and later returned to Maine by the Ricker family of Poland Spring, who received an award for the purity of their Poland Water at the Exposition. It is one of only five remaining state buildings from the World’s Columbian Exposition and the only state building still standing from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
All Souls Chapel opened in 1912 under the vision of Sadie Ricker for guests and staff at Poland Spring.
The museum buildings are available for private parties, weddings, and events.
For more information, please contact the Poland Spring Preservation Society at PO Box 444, Poland Spring, Maine 04274, call (207) 998-4142, or email contact@polandspringmuseums.org
MEDIA CONTACT
Kimberly J. Poland | Poland Media Group
(401) 743-7272 | kimberly@polandmediagroup.com
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