 Bethel, in Oxford County, one of the oldest villages in western Maine, was incorporated on June 10, 1796 from Sudbury Canada Plantation. After setting off land to form part of Hanover (1843) and annexing some land from Hanover (1849), Bethel attained its current boundaries.
Its name signifies the House of God, possibly inspired by its beautiful location among the Oxford Hills.
According to Isaacson, The last foray of Indians into Maine was made in August 1781 when a party from St. Francis, Quebec, attacked Bethel, plundering and holding two settlers captive until after the end of the Revolution. (p. 366)
The historic Middle Intervale Meetinghouse was built in 1816 by the Baptists and Methodists, with financial help from the town. Altered several times in the 19th century and known as the Union Church and the Center Meetinghouse, it was used for town meetings for many years.
The Dr. Moses Mason House was built 1813-1815 for one of Bethel's most distinguished residents. Rufus Porter (1792-1881), an important early American painter, added murals to the interior. A physician, Mason was also active in town affairs, became a member of Congress, and served as a trustee of Gould Academy. The house is now home to the Bethel Historical Society.
Two local institutions of note are Gould Academy, a private co-educational preparatory school; and the Bethel Inn, a traditional New England hotel.
From Maine: An Encyclopedia (www.themaineencyclopedia.com)
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