8984-R2_NewGloucester_2023-2024_AnnualReport_Web

Annual Town Report In Honor of New Gloucester Semiquincentennial Committee The Town of New Gloucester, incorporated on September 7, 1774, marked its 250 th anniversary in 2024 with a yearlong series of events and a grand celebration.To commemorate this historic milestone, the Select Board appointed a dedicated ad-hoc group, known as the Semiquincentennial Committee. For over two years, this passionate group of volunteers worked tirelessly to plan and execute a variety of events that brought the community together in celebration of New Gloucester’s rich history. Meeting more than 30 times, the committee meticulously coordinated every detail, ensuring that the town’s legacy was honored in meaningful and memorable ways. Beyond these meetings, hundreds of hours were spent organizing, preparing, and bringing each event to life. The yearlong celebration kicked off at AMVETS Post #6 with a bean supper and a cake decorating contest. The final event was the community celebration marking New Gloucester’s 250 th birthday on September 7, 2024. This grand occasion featured a parade, guest speakers—including Senator Susan Collins and the Mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts— vendors, children’s games, food, animals, town artifacts, and much more. Additional celebratory events throughout the year included a photography contest, a barn dance, a community yard sale, a car show, a spoken word night, and church and garden tours. Each event was well attended and uniquely showcased the spirit of New Gloucester, all under the direction of the Semiquincentennial Committee. In addition to the many events, special commemorative items were created to honor the town’s 250 th anniversary. A local brewery crafted and canned a special beer for the occasion, the New Gloucester Historical Society designed a silver celebration coin, and a book was published highlighting the festivities and more. The success of this milestone year was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Semiquincentennial Committee, Town of New Gloucester employees, the Community Fair Committee, and the New Gloucester Historical Society, with invaluable sponsorship support from numerous local businesses and organizations. With deep appreciation, on behalf of the citizens of New Gloucester, the Select Board recognizes and honors the New Gloucester Semiquincentennial Committee through the 2023-2024 New Gloucester

Annual Report. Their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment made this 250 th -anniversary celebration a remarkable success. Their efforts have strengthened our sense of community, honored our past, and truly celebrated New Gloucester. Thank You!

4