This exhibit preserves the rigorous history of people interacting with a unique and largely untouched land.

For thousands of years, Downeast Maine's forests, rivers, and abundant wildlife have provided livelihoods and sustenance for the people of the region. Even today, numerous unique bird species are preserved here. Deer are sometimes seen on the streets of Calais, which is home to the Museum. Black bears roam the woods, and moose have been known to wander nearby country roads. Eagles are abundant: in the early mornings, they can often be viewed from the expansive windows of the Downeast Heritage Museum itself. At other times they can be viewed from the Riverfront Walk that begins behind the museum.

In a variety of ways, people here have made lives tied intimately to the land itself. From the beginning, people have hunted deer and moose in Downeast Maine, or fished from the abundance of the area's plentiful lakes and rivers.

An agricultural industry arose, and the region grew ripe with wild blueberries, strawberries, and potatoes, among other crops.

Since the early days of European colonization, people have also made livings from harvesting trees to build ships, make lumber, or manufacture paper.

Today, ecotourism brings thousands through the region's many parks and waterways to appreciate the enduring miracle of nature here. The communities of the Downeast came together for the Living with the Land exhibit and donated most of the items on view.