Cumberland Bank reward broadside, Portland, 1818
Maine Historical Society
Maine’s fascination with true crime is far from a modern phenomenon. From early American printing to the dawn of photojournalism, Notorious explores society’s enduring interest in true crime and the ways it captivated the public’s imagination over two and a half centuries. Through the lens of Maine history, this exhibition highlights case studies, the evolution of media reporting, and entertainment-driven storytelling.
By analyzing historical and contemporary approaches to true crime, Notorious provides insight into shifting societal norms, the origins of public information dissemination, and the role of communities in solving crimes. It also critically examines recurring themes such as stereotyping, voyeurism, and sensationalism—elements that remain central to crime reporting today.
Understanding the historical context of society’s appetite for true crime enables us to engage more thoughtfully with today’s fast-paced, twenty-four-hour news cycle and the widespread availability of crime stories in the digital age. As Notorious reveals, Maine’s true crime history is not just a window into the past—it’s a mirror reflecting our modern relationship with media, justice, and community responsibility.
Content Warning
This exhibition contains graphic and potentially upsetting descriptions and imagery of crime and punishment over two and half centuries. The original descriptions, as they appear in historic accounts, may contain harmful language or fail to demonstrate sufficient empathy for the victims or subject matter. Content may include descriptive text, graphic imagery, or in some instances original objects used to commit a crime.
Topics include murder, domestic violence, crimes against children, sexual violence, suicide and self-harm, abortion, abuse, trauma, assault, enslavement, theft, imprisonment and confinement, missing persons, racism and stereotyping, and public execution by hanging.
Text throughout the exhibition includes phrases taken from period publications. Some of this language may seem insensitive or exploitative, but is included to demonstrate the sensational nature of historical media coverage.
Please approach with caution.