The historic Firehouse Gallery, located within easy walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants, has played a significant role in Damariscotta since the mid-19th century. Called “Massasoit Engine Company #1”, it was used as a working firehouse until the 1960’s. The building still displays remnants of a time long passed. With its skyward reaching hose tower (used for drying hoses in its heyday as a working fire station) the firehouse is a wonderful destination spot for both history and architecture enthusiasts.

In the early 1970’s the firemen moved to a modern station, and the building, with new bright red etched glass doors, was reopened as a women’s dress shop. Until the early 1990’s, Margot Smith was the shopping spot for ladies. In the 1997 renovation, the gallery owners found many fun reminders of days past, including original fire hoses and dress shop gift certificate receipts that captured many of the original family names from this area.

Damariscotta, and the Gallery, are located at the intersection of two scenic peninsulas: Pemaquid, home of the famous lighthouse featured on the Maine State quarter and where visitors catch the ferry to Monhegan Island and South Bristol, where summer residents enjoy quaint Christmas Cove. A short drive will take you north to the Camden/Rockport or south to Boothbay Harbor.

The Firehouse Gallery has become a unique destination for both local supporters and enthusiastic visitors. Surrounded by many fine restaurants and lovely shops, The Firehouse Gallery’s constantly changing exhibits offers a wonderful focal point for a full day worth of Maine’s best.