Acadia’s founders to be honored in Bar Harbor ceremony

BAR HARBOR – The people responsible for founding Acadia National Park more than 100 years ago will be feted today.

Local officials said that appreciation of their foresight is on the agenda, along with speeches, lemonade and cake.

“Every visitor who comes to Acadia owes a debt of gratitude to George Dorr, Charles W. Eliot and others who worked tirelessly to preserve this space,” Stephanie Clement of the nonprofit advocacy group Friends of Acadia said Friday.

August 13 marks the 104th anniversary of the first meeting of Dorr, Eliot and others who eventually formed the Hancock County Trustees for Public Reservations. This group worked to obtain land donations and to raise money to purchase other tracts that became Acadia National Park.

In the late 1800s, Clement said, Mount Desert Island’s popularity was creating some potential problems.

“Even back in the late 1800s it was going through a development boom,” she said. “I think they wanted to protect that land to ensure it was going to be around for other generations to enjoy.”

The founders recognized the island’s scenic, natural beauty and its recreational opportunities, Clement said.

Those who love Acadia National Park will pay tribute to the founders with a variety of speeches from Ronald Epp, Dorr’s biographer, and Sheridan Steele, park superintendent, among others.

Area elected officials will read Gov. John Baldacci’s official proclamation that declares Aug. 13, 2005 “Founders Day.”

“That’s one highlight,” Clement said. “It really is meant to be a celebration of Acadia National Park.”

The celebration begins at 2 p.m. today on the Village Green. In case of rain, it will be moved next door to the Bar Harbor Congregational Church.