Founded during a time of national and environmental transformation, the Monmouth Fish & Game Association (MFGA) has grown from a small group of concerned sportsmen into one of Maine’s most active and respected outdoor organizations.

1941 – The Founding Years

In 1941, as the world braced against the tides of war, a group of Monmouth residents came together with a shared mission: to protect Maine’s wildlife and waterways. Alarmed by the environmental degradation they were witnessing—particularly the algae bloom in Annabessacook Lake, once known for its brook trout—the group formed what would soon become the Monmouth Fish & Game Association.

Romie Marsans Jr., then principal of Monmouth Academy, was elected as the club’s first president. Early efforts focused on conservation: one of the first projects was skeining Wilson Pond to control the invasive white perch population. By 1943, they had successfully introduced brown trout to the pond. At just $1 per year, membership quickly grew, especially as World War II came to a close.

1949 – Incorporation and Expansion

On June 30, 1949, the club officially incorporated as Monmouth Fish & Game Association, Inc. in the presence of Judge Herbert E. Foster of Winthrop. Founding incorporators included Wendall H. Hartford (President), Roy C. Foster (Secretary), Beverly A. Slauenwhite, F.G. Greenleaf, and others whose names still echo in the club’s legacy.

The first executive committee immediately raised dues to $1.50 per year and began hosting shooting events, including the club’s first “Field Day” at Wilson Pond, where members took turns launching clay targets by hand over a hole dug into the ground—12 shots for 50 cents, including shells.

1950s – Establishing a Home

With support from noted sportsman Dr. James A. Shippee, the Association purchased 50 acres along the newly realigned Route 202 and Curtis Corner Road. This land became the heart of the MFGA. A trap field was constructed in 1950, and a battery-operated field followed in 1951.

During this decade, the Association began acquiring surrounding parcels, eventually amassing over 265 acres stretching west to the Leeds town line and south toward the Peterson property. One final piece of land was gifted by Beverly A. Slauenwhite, solidifying the Association’s expansive footprint.

Meetings were first held in rotating locations including the Monmouth Grange Hall and Curly’s Restaurant, while committee gatherings often took place in members’ homes.

1950s–60s – Growth in Programs and Prestige

Trap shooting surged in popularity, becoming the club’s main income source. Shoots were held multiple nights a week and all day on Sundays. Registered trap shoots attracted participants from across the state. In 1955, MFGA hosted the State Trap Shoot, a prestigious honor that confirmed the club’s growing prominence.

The Association also participated actively in state fish stocking programs, making their voice heard in Augusta on fish and wildlife legislation. In partnership with the State Fish & Wildlife Department, MFGA began a pheasant-raising program in the 1960s. With pens built on members’ properties and a high-protein feed source (courtesy of the Pettengill poultry farm), Monmouth’s birds were famously larger and healthier than state-raised birds.

Also during this era, the Annual Ice Fishing Derby was launched, a winter tradition that continues today. In 1968, members voted to build a pond on the grounds, completed later that year, enhancing the property’s natural beauty and attracting local wildlife.

1970s – A Golden Decade

The 1970s were a high point for MFGA. Trapshooting grew so rapidly that a second trap field was built. In 1974, under President Wallace Bubier, members voted to construct a clubhouse. With support from contractor/member Bill Pollard and strong volunteerism, the clubhouse was completed, providing a central space for events and socializing.

The era also saw the rise of the famous Bean-Hole-Bean Suppers, which began as a lighthearted idea and evolved into a major fundraiser thanks to the tireless work of Roland and Shirley Wing.

Legacy and Impact

From its humble beginnings in 1941, Monmouth Fish & Game Association has evolved into a robust, 265-acre facility offering shooting sports, conservation programs, public education, and family-friendly events. It maintains multiple shooting ranges, a stocked pond, an archery course, trap and skeet fields, and actively participates in statewide programs through its partnership with organizations like the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP).

MFGA remains deeply committed to its founding goals: conservation, education, recreation, and community. Its rich history and continued stewardship ensure that future generations will enjoy the Maine outdoors for decades to come.