Seal Cove Auto Museum, Maine

The Seal Cove Auto Museum is located in Tremont, Maine.  It offers a look at varied antique style cars, motorcycles and other motorized vehicles, some dating back to as early as the late 19^th century.  Many have been carefully restored to their world-class level of condition, but others are still remaining unrestored.

Located on Tremont Road in Tremont, Maine, the Seal Cove Auto Museum is a must see for any vehicle lover.  Situated on the outskirts of the town, the museum offers an array of restored and unrestored vehicles, dating from the late 19^th century onwards.  In fact, this unique type of collection is rare and entertains not just antique vehicle enthusiasts, but varied people of all ages with the romance, mystery and beauty of antique vehicles.

The collection found at the Seal Cove Auto Museum was the brainchild and passion of its founder, Richard Paine.  He collected varied vehicles, including the world land speed record holder adapted street type car, the 1908 Model K.  He spent many years in Bar Harbor, until his death, collecting cars, motorcycles and other antique vehicles, buying, selling and trading as part of a personal hobby and passion.

After his death, the museum was taken over by a trust in his name and all of his collectibles have been preserved and protected for all to see and enjoy.  In fact, what makes the Seal Cove Auto Museum so unique is its unusual location, so far from civilization and urbanization as could possibly be imagined. 

Many people come from across the world to see the Seal Cove Auto Museum collections, including the brass vans.  However, despite its unique location, the Paine Trust will be considering moving the museum to a more suitable location and adding in special programs and exhibits as seen in most other museums.  In fact, it is likely that the potential move could increase visitor numbers dramatically.

At present there is a core selection of vehicles within the museum.  Featured motorcycles amongst Paine’s collection include the 1901 Thomas, the 1903 Indian and the 1911 Flying Merkel.  The main featured car is the fully jewelled 1909 Corbin.

The Seal Cove Auto Museum is open daily from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, from 10am to 5pm.  Admissions are very reasonable.  AAA and other auto museum members get 10% off admission costs.  Museum staff, other related organizations and NEMA and AMA members get in for free.

Getting to the Seal Cove Auto Museum is fairly simple.  It overlooks Acadia National Park’s Seal Cove Pond on Mount Desert Island.  Visitors can take the Pretty Marsh Road out of Somesville and turn onto Tremont Road.  The museum is situated on the right hand side, but is set back somewhat.