Maine State Capitol, State Museum, Fort Western

STATE CAPITOL, STATE MUSEUM, FORT WESTERN*

This trip was typical of those taken by school groups each year to our State Capitol. It did, however, afford us extra time at each site since we were not under pressure to return in time to make normal bus departures at our schools. This would have been the case if we had taken the trip during the school year. All arrangements for this trip were made by contacting...Division of Community Services, Augusta, Maine....Students were divided into three groups and then rotated among the sites.

The Capitol Building Tour lasted one-half to one hour. A guided tour of the Senate and House chambers, the Rotunda and the Hall of Flags was included. One group was given a chance to sit on the floor of the House, to play the role of house leaders and were shown how votes were taken. This is not always available since the time of your visit and the availability of staff members are factors.

The Maine State Museum visit lasted approximately one hour, however, the time spent at the museum can be much longer. The Maine Wildlife Exhibit is very interesting as are the other exhibits which change periodically. Exhibits available to yor group may be axcertained when you arrange your visit. The museum also offers classes to school groups in various areas....

Fort Western is a marvelous place for youngsters to visit. Guides escorted groups from room to room explaining its use and the many items within each. Cost for school groups is minimal. Fort Western is open May 15th through Labor Day....THis is a must for any group visiting the Augusta area. Fort Western is best reached from the Capitol by following State Street to the rotary, crossing the new bridge, reaching the second rotary and following Cony Street down the hill toards the Kennebec River.

Lunch was enjoyed at the park across from the Capitol. An alternative is...located on Western Avenue traveling from Augusta towards the Maine Turnpike.

The highpoint of a trip to Augusta would be meeting with the Governor. A meeting would be determined by his schedule. Groups interested may make initial contact with the Office of the Governor, Augusta, Maine..., to make your wishes known and arrange a possible meeting.

A tour of the Blaine House could also be arranged through the Division of Community Services. This tour includes the history of the Hames G. Blaine family and the current utilization of the home. This visit does not include the second floor private quarters of the Governor.

The Augusta trip scored one of the highest ratings from both teachers and students. It was one of the most enjoyable and educational trips. All Maine youngsters should visit their State Capitol.

*Not visited during Summer, tour planned for Fall of 1980.

(Excerpt from The Maine Journey Field Trip Guide, 1980, p.33-34.)