150 Years of Saving Horses!
150 Years of Saving Horses!
The nonprofit Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals has been a leading voice for the voiceless since 1872.
Follow the MSSPA’s trail of success stories.
1872
Julia Clapp Carroll spearheads a campaign to protect the horses that pull Portland’s streetcars and fire engines, culminating in the founding of the Portland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on May 22. Overshadowed by prominent men who served on the board, Carroll’s role is largely obscured until it’s rediscovered in the 21st century.
1891
The Portland SPCA merges with the Maine SPCA to form the MSSPA.
Early 1900s
The MSSPA advocated for the welfare of animals in a variety of ways, including the humane treatment of livestock transported on railroads. The Society was instrumental in the passing of legislation regarding the treatment of animals on film sets, in roadside stands, and in zoos. The MSSPA also worked to ensure that Maine’s schools teach the compassionate treatment of animals.
1978
The organization relocates from Portland to a state-owned farm on River Road in Windham.
1980s
Lawrence Keddy purchases the 124-acre River Road farm for fair market value and donates the land to the MSSPA, ensuring a safe haven for horses and a lifelong home for those equines that do not find an adoptive home.
2000
Marilyn Goodreau becomes president of the MSSPA after serving as the Society’s farm manager since the 1970s. Marilyn passed in June 2023.
2011
The MSSPA’s volunteer program is launched. It now has nearly 200 active participants.
Meris Bickford becomes the Society’s first CEO.
2018
A new indoor training facility with a visitor’s center is built at the River Road farm.
The MSSPA partners with the Southern Maine Women’s Reentry Center to help residents heal through their work with horses that, like them, need a second chance.
2021
The number of horses sheltered at the farm nearly doubles on a single July day, when a herd of 20 arrives in urgent need of care.
A record 27 horses were adopted to loving families.
2022 and Beyond
Your continued financial support helps ensure that the MSSPA continues saving horses for the next 150 years. Thank you!
