This cast iron cobbler’s shoe anvil, used for making and repairing footwear, represents the late 19th and early 20th centuries when shoe manufacturing was central to the economies of Lewiston and Auburn. The Maine MILL’s new location at 1 Beech Street, which will open...
This picture of a mallard duck was found in part of our archives. With a nest and a box labeled ‘Mr. Millard’, it seems like the Bates Mill may have had a duck employed! Maine is home to numerous species of aquatic birds, while being known for puffins...
This Bates bedspread was donated to us earlier this year, and is in great condition. Featuring a very complicated and elaborate design, this bedspread would have taken a lot of work to create. Starting with artists drafting the design, to being turned into punch...
Located outside our permanent gallery, the names listed are those who worked at the Bates Mill and served during World War Two, either through the draft or volunteering. On the left side are the women who served, with their names marked on the board with a...
This poster, located in our permanent gallery, depicts the entire bedspread design process, starting with cotton and ending with the final product. Created by the Bates Company in-house, this document comes to life as you follow along with the machines we have on...
Currently on display in our temporary gallery space, this drafting table was used by Bates artists to create countless art pieces for use in bedspreads, tablecloths and more. Featuring designs ranging from a roller-skate to flowers, visitors to our exhibit...
