With its eastern boundary running along the Maine border, Freedom is a little town surrounding a small village, well off the beaten path. It's name reflects it's history- in 1831 the village of North Effingham voted to secede from Effingham, and in 1832, the new town celebrated its independence by changing its name to "Freedom". The local historical society maintains a charming museum where lemonade and cookies are served to visitors on summer afternoons. Members can also provide a quick sketch of the history of Freedom as seen in the houses standing along the quiet village streets. Freedom has a volunteer fire department and an independently governed water precinct. The public library is open several days a week. There is a Protestant church and a Masonic Lodge in the village. Several community clubs for adults and a 4 H program for young people provide on-going activities and socializing. All the local organizations participate in the annual "Old Home Week", which was designed to encourage people to come back to their roots in an annual week-long homecoming celebration during the second week in August. Freedom is governed by town meeting and three selectmen. It has a planning board, zoning board of adjustment and a conservation commission. In 1987, in an attempt to control the town's growth, a "Master Plan" was adopted. Among its goals are the preservation of natural assets- the town's lakes, streams, woodlands and wildlife habitats, the protection of outdoor recreation resources, and the continuation into the future of Freedom's peaceful lifestyle. State Community Profile