BRIDGTON — Beth Cossey, a true daughter of Bridgton, embodied the very essence of community spirit.
Her warmth, kindness and endearing curiosity touched countless lives and the Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity aims to ensure her enduring legacy and passion for education will inspire future generations.
The museum, located on 121 Main St. in Bridgton, stands as a landmark celebrating one of Maine’s most influential artists and the beauty of New England. It has established the Beth Cossey Catalyst Fund, a new education-focused initiative dedicated to fostering creativity and community engagement. Cossey, a museum trustee, passed away in October 2024.
“Inspired by Beth’s passion for learning and connection, the fund will support educational programs and activities that reflect her values,” Daniel Dinsmore, executive director of the museum, said. “We look forward to honoring her memory through this meaningful initiative.”
Norway Savings Bank is pleased to have committed $15,000 to the fund and, recently, NSB representatives made a special visit to the museum to deliver the check.
“I was amazed to hear about the plans to honor Beth in ways that will build a stronger community,” Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings, said. “Field trips, support for local arts and science programs, museum scholarships, a grant program, special community events and series, it’s really overwhelming. Plus, the museum is dedicated to ensuring all youth, regardless of their background, have access to it. The passion of the staff for preserving and growing the museum is always on full display as well.”
“Thanks to the amazing commitment of supporters like Norway Savings Bank, Rufus Porter Museum has become a must-see destination that anchors a growing arts community in Bridgton and beyond,” Dinsmore said. “We are truly grateful for the many contributions made to the museum as well as the new donations in Beth’s name. All of this generosity is truly the backbone of this terrific museum.”
The 2026 season at the Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity will run from June 6 to Oct. 10. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment. Admission is $15 for adults and $12 for seniors. Thanks to support from Norway Savings Bank, children under 18 are admitted free through the museum’s Youth Pass Program.
For more information about the museum, including how you can support the Beth Cossey Catalyst Fund, visit www.rufusportermuseum.org or call 207-647-2828.
