KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine (April 8, 2020) – With people sequestering at home during the Pandemic, the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s Archivist, Sharon Cummins, saw an opportunity to engage local history buffs.  In March she put out a call looking for “virtual volunteers” interested in transcribing handwritten records which can be difficult to read.  The response was overwhelming.  Every day, Cummins emails scanned pages from notebooks in the archives to nearly 20 volunteers who are creating typewritten copies for the Society.

“Over the years handwritten information about historic buildings throughout Kennebunkport has been collected,” said Executive Administrator Kirsten Camp. “These records are used frequently by members of the Society doing research, and we have been gradually transcribing the material to make it easier to work with.  Sharon had the brilliant idea to reach out and ask people with extra time on their hands during the Pandemic for help.”

“I have been amazed at how many people have raised their hands to help with this project,” added Cummins.  “The work these volunteers are doing will make the information in our archives more easily accessible to researchers and homeowners interested in learning about the history of the community and their property.  We can’t thank them enough!”

If you are interested in transcribing some of the Society’s records while you are sheltering in place, please contact Sharon Cummins at kennebunks@gmail.com.