Thomaston Library presents---

A Poetry Reading and Book Signing


On April 18th at 2 P.M. Diane Schetky will be reading from her latest book of poems: Dancing Bear and Other New Poems. This new book reflects her penchant for travel to extreme locations and her concern for our endangered earth. Her poetry is accessible, poignant and often humorous. This is her second book of poems since her 2009 collection: Poems on Loss, Hope and Healing.

This reading will take place in the Thomaston Public Library section of the Academy building on 60 Main St. in Thomaston. Public parking is located behind the Academy.

In celebration of Poetry Month, the Thomaston Public Library will host two poetry readings in addition to poetry related displays and themes. This event is free and open to all ages. Contact us to find out more at 207-354-2453.

Edward O'Brien display unveiled

A display centering around Edward O'Brien, shipbuilder and one of Thomaston's foremost historic residents, was unveiled at the library last week. A portrait of O'Brien, an oil painting of one of the three ships that bore his name (The Edward O'Brien 2nd, called "Little Edward") and a water pitcher from the ship were installed on the south facing wall of the library.

O'Brien, local shipbuilder, politician, philanthropist and businessman, was one of the nation's first millionaires. He built his first shipyard in Thomaston in 1854 and by the time of his death was one of the oldest shipbuilders still engaged in actually building ships. This portrait of O'Brien, by an unknown artist, was donated to the library by Margaret Demmons.

The Edward O'Brien 2nd was launched in 1863. She was 200 feet long, 40.3 feet beam, and 28 feet deep, with a weight of 1,803 tons. She was converted into a coal barge after 31 years under sail. This oil painting of the Little Edward by J. Hughes was donated to the library, along with the water pitcher used on the ship, by Walter O. Berg.