Current Exhibit
The Old Brooks Farm and the History of Westport’s Southern Shore
On view until spring 2026, this exhibit explores the history of Brooks Cove from the Abenaki to the eight generations of the Charles Stockbridge Brooks family that followed them. It’s easy to see why the Abenaki, “the people of the first light” first visited today’s Brooks Cove.
Like the Abenaki, European settlers in the 18th century found this land favorable. The Brooks family were among the first documented settlers of today’s Westport Island. They prospered with livelihoods centered on lumber, farming, and the sea — carpentry, boat-building, crops, fishing, and seafaring. Their connection to this property is evidenced
by the succeeding generations of Brooks family descendants who have inhabited and stewarded the land to this day.
Westport family genealogists are familiar with the island’s “genealogy bible”, “Family Records of Westport, Maine” by Beatrice Harriman. It was here at Brooks Cove Farm where she laboriously collected and documented the history of Westport families. Her book and contributions to island history are on view as a part of this exhibit.
Visit Us
Visit us at the History Center at Westport Island’s historic Ferry Landing to see the photos and memorabilia that tell this story.
The History Center is open from noon to 2 pm on Sundays, for special events and meetings noted on our Calendar, and by appointment for viewing at your convenience. Contact info@fowih.org.
Thank You to Our Supporters
Thank you to the Bradford, Metzger, Platz and other families whose photographs, documents and artifacts helped create the story of the Old Brooks Farm. Telling the stories of our history depends on the willingness of individuals to share their family stories.
And thank you once again to the financial donors and sponsors who have chosen to support Westport Island History. Please show your support to the businesses and individuals who support us. All are recognized on our Sponsorships page.