A member of the Bowdoin class of 1852, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain later became a professor, president, trustee and overseer of the educational institution. Noted for his command of the troops as a Civil War General at Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg, he is probably best known for his efforts to modernize Bowdoin College.

The adult home of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain was sold out of the family by his granddaughter in 1939. The new owner converted the home into apartments and it remained as such until the early 1980s. The building suffered serious neglect and was scheduled for demolition when it was rescued by the local historical society.

Due to the severe state of dilapidation at the time of the purchase, extensive repairs have been taking place for the last 20+ years in an effort to restore this historic building. Repairs have been made on foundations, sills and support members as well as restoration of the original interior décor.

The Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum is located at 226 Maine Street, Brunswick, Main. The facility is open Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Guided tours are given each hour. The Museum is open seasonally from late May through late October.