The Damariscotta Region Chamber & Information Bureau extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals and businesses that have generously supported our community through annual pledges, material donations, volunteer hours, cash contributions, and engraved brick purchases. Your belief in our vision has been instrumental in revitalizing our historic building, bringing it back to life and service. Thank you for your unwavering support—we truly have the best community!

The Information Bureau first opened its doors to visitors in the summer of 1935, built on a previously vacant lot that emerged after Route 1 was realigned from Church Street to Main Street. Grevis Melville was the driving force behind this initiative. The building, located on King’s Corner—named in honor of Dr. J.M. King—was constructed in 1933. On November 13 of that year, 27 local business leaders gathered at Lincoln County Motors to organize this significant project. Initially staffed by the Board of Trade, a group of local entrepreneurs dedicated to supporting visitors, the Bureau thrived through their collaboration.

An article published on July 13, 1939, highlights the accolades and appreciation directed toward the Information Bureau, featuring quotes from notable dignitaries including Maine’s Governor, the U.S. Undersecretary of Agriculture, and the Vice President of the National Fire Insurance Company. By July 1985, the Bureau celebrated its 50th anniversary with an impressive milestone of one million recorded visitors.

In 1986, the Board of Trade transitioned into the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce, representing over 200 local businesses. However, the Information Bureau faced challenges, sitting vacant for several years due to declining volunteer numbers and leadership changes. In a bold move, on August 4, 2020, the Damariscotta Region Chamber of Commerce and the Information Bureau united to ensure the preservation of our historic building and to establish a permanent home for the Chamber.

Fast forward to August 2023, we proudly celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated 1933 historic building, now complemented by a new structure of equal size. This expanded space warmly welcomes both visitors and community members.

The grand opening featured the unveiling of the building’s name—The Sam & Abbie Roberts Chamber building, in honor of Lincoln County Publishing—along with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a blessing of the building. The rest is now history!

We invite you to visit our new space where you’ll find information about local attractions, accommodations, and dining options. Don’t miss our history wall, showcasing artifacts from the original building. We look forward to welcoming you and helping you make the most of your time in the MidCoast!