Readfield Historical Society will host two events during Readfield Festival Days. The 15th annual Wine and Cheese soiree will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, at the RHS building, 754 Main St. The event will feature an assortment of cheeses, sausages, crackers, pickles and cookies. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages also will be served.

Dale Potter-Clark will lead a history walk of Readfield Depot village at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, starting at the RHS building.

Readfield Depot was once a thriving village. In this 1920 photo are Chesley's blacksmith shop, the Sherburne residence, Gordon's Store, and the Gordon & Henry sawmill, granary and elevator. Beyond the buildings are the railroad tracks and, out of sight, the train station and more. A walking tour will take place at Readfield Depot village on Saturday, Aug. 11, led by Readfield historian and author Dale Potter-Clark. Contributed photo

The village became established soon after the railroad came through town in 1849. Tourism followed and the area branched out into yet another realm. “The Depot,” as locals called it, continued to flourish until well after World War II. Today little evidence remains of the businesses that once existed there. Following a photo show that depicts Readfield Depot in its heydays, Potter-Clark will lead participants on a walking tour of the village to point out where some of the buildings, enterprises and other features once existed.

There is no fee for either event. Members and those who wish to join the society are encouraged to attend.

For more information, contact Bob Harris, historical society president, at 377-2299 or readfieldhistorical@gmail.com. Potter-Clark can be reached at 441-9184 or crossings4u@gmail.com.