Brooks Preservation Society
Saving Yesterday for
Tomorrow.
About BPS
The Brooks Preservation Society (BPS) a 501(c)(3) non-profit all volunteer organization, was
formed in 2008 with the mission to protect, preserve, and celebrate historic
structures and artifacts in Brooks as well as the surrounding communities for
the benefit of the citizens and local economy. The preservation and restoration of
structures in a community contributes to the economic vitality.
Our first oppertunity/project was to protect, preserve, and restore
the former Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad (B&ML) Station
located in Brooks, Maine.
Our second oppertunity/project was to protect, restore, and maintain, several pieces of former
B&ML motive power and rolling stock. These include Locomotives
#50 and #53. Locomotive #53 was our first collection piece. Open air car #25, a Fairmont A-4, and
two push carts followed. Then we added locomotive #50, the first diesel electric locomotive to
operate on the B&ML.
Lastly, to preserve the railroad corridor running through Waldo County, we formed the Belfast and Moosehead Railway. During our operating season, we offer weekend and holiday excursions departing mostly from Belfast, Maine. Revenues from our excursions fund our railroad operation and restoration projects.
BPS believes in building partnerships. Those partnerships with local businesses,
communites, and other historic and preservation societies will ensure that yesterday
is saved for tomorrow!
No one person can successfully preserve and protect historic treasures in our communities. At BPS, we welcome the community to particiapte in our efforts. Each member of our organization is a valuable asset and must be recognized for their unique contributions and talents. Preservation is not just about buildings, curators, and collections. It is about people and communities.