Somesville Museum & Gardens

Our exhibits explore the stories of MDI’s past—stories of resilience, labor, and life beyond the familiar lens of tourism. Learn about the lived experiences of the Wabanaki people, early settlers, immigrants in the granite and construction industries, domestic workers, seasonal laborers, and year-round residents who worked in fisheries, boat building, and more. These narratives connect the island’s towns and villages, showing how MDI is both unique and part of a shared coastal Maine legacy.

Open June through September: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm

The grounds and bridge are accessible year-round.

The Somesville Museum sits at the heart of the island’s history. Constructed in 1981, the building overlooks the mill pond and tranquil Somes Harbor with Sargent and Norumbega Mountains in the distance.

Throughout the grounds, plants of the 19th and early 20th centuries bloom in a lovely Heirloom Garden from late May through October. The garden has become a focus for education about the flowering plants and herbs that have flourished on Mount Desert Island.

Admission: $5 suggested donation

The Selectmen's Building is often hailed as the most photographed site on Mount Desert Island. It was constructed during the 1780s by John Somes, son of Abraham Somes, who settled in the village in 1761. Used at various times throughout its history as a cobbler's shop, post office, and museum, the building served as the Town Office for Mount Desert during the 19th century until 1911, where elected Selectmen conducted official business between annual Town Meetings.

Crossing the mill stream between the Selectmen's Building and the Museum is the Thaddeus Shepley Somes Memorial Bridge, built in 1981 to honor a descendant of Abraham Somes.

Use of our buildings, grounds, and parking is by permission only. For a copy of our terms of use or to reserve our grounds for ceremonies or events, please contact us.