If you have never experienced the grandeur of the Schmid Preserve, or if you want to learn about about the ways of homesteading and farming in early Maine, here is your opportunity! 

On Saturday, Sept. 7 the town of Edgecomb, as part of the year-long celebration of its 250th birthday, is offering a day of activities at the Schmid Preserve located at the end of Old County Road, Edgecomb.  

The Schmid Preserve consists of 766 acres donated by Charles and Constance Schmid to the town of Edgecomb in 1979. It provides public access to miles of trails, streams, wetlands, wildlife habitat, and historic sites. Numerous cellar holes, wells, mines, and stone walls provide glimpses into the lost settlement of Mount Hunger, a tight-knit community that was once large enough to have its own school and store.  

Sept. 7 activities 

• 10 a.m.-Noon and 1-3 p.m.

Master blacksmith and historian, Jeffrey Miller, will demonstrate his craft using a replica 18th century forge to create items that would have been used in the daily lives of early Edgecomb inhabitants. This demonstration will take place at the Schmid Preserve’s parking area located at the end of Old County Road, Edgecomb. 

• Noon

Becky Schaffner and Chris Tanguay, master stone mason, will give a guided tour of stone walls and historic sites on the Preserve. Becky will talk about some of the families who inhabited the area during the 18th - early 20th centuries, while Chris will provide insights into the construction of the stone walls and foundations. The tour will start at the Haggett Field, a short walk from the parking lot on Old County Road. 

So wear comfortable walking shoes, maybe pack a picnic lunch, and make your way to the majestic Schmid Preserve on Saturday, Sept. 7. Then, after visiting the Preserve, stop by nearby Blanchard’s Creamery where you might sample Mount Hunger Mudslide, a special flavor created by the Creamery in honor of the Mount Hunger community and the Schmid Preserve!