In the fourth presentation of the Bicentennial Lecture Series sponsored by Lincoln County Historical Association and Old Fort Western, living historians Mike Dekker and Mark Rohman will describe the war on the Maine frontier from the perspectives of a soldier and a farmer/settler. The talk will take place at Wiscasset Middle High School on Sunday, Oct. 13 at 1 p.m.

Between 1675 and 1760 the Maine frontier was ravaged by a series of six wars involving the native people and their English-speaking neighbors. This presentation will show how issues concerning trade and land contributed to the intercultural tensions which led to perhaps the darkest and most tragic period in Maine history. It will review the history of the six wars and their impact on both the native and English-speaking inhabitants of early Maine. 

Mike Dekker grew up in Midcoast Maine and has for many years pursued his passion for the region’s past. An avid student of early American history and material culture, he presents educational programs for historical societies, museums, historic sites, schools and the public. In addition to talks and lectures regarding forgotten aspects of Maine’s history, he often engages the public through living history displays. Using period documents, images and historically accurate items, Mike endeavors to bring to life the stories of soldiers, farmers and fishermen on the Maine frontier during the 17th and 18th centuries. Mike is the author of the book “The French and Indian Wars In Maine,” which uncovers the tragic and largely forgotten story of the six wars which ravaged Maine between 1675 and 1760. 

Mark Rohman has been part of the Living History community since 2004. Mark started this hobby as a member of the 3rd Maine Infantry Volunteers portraying a soldier in the American Civil War circa 1863. Since discovering the State of Maine's rich history, he has participated in interpreting the colonial era as a member of James Howard's Company, Fletcher's Scouting Company and, currently, as a member of Maine's French and Indian Wars.

The Bicentennial lectures are free, although a donation of $5 is suggested. Refreshments will be served.

Old Fort Western is a not for profit organization whose mission is to preserve, protect, and interpret the National Historical Landmark, Fort, Store and House located on the Kennebec River in Augusta, Maine. For more information, call 207-626-2385 or email oldfortwestern.org

Visit www.lincolncountyhistory.org or Facebook at Lincoln County Historical Association (Maine) and Pownalborough Court House Museum for more information.