About the Wilhelm Reich Museum
Wilhelm Reich, MD (1897-1957) was an Austrian born physician who first rose to prominence as a young psychoanalyst in 1920s Vienna within the inner circle of Sigmund Freud. Reich authored influential books on psychoanalytic theory, socio-politics and human sexuality and is considered the founder of the field of Body Psychotherapy. His focus on the energy underlying human emotions led Reich to propose that this same energy, which he called orgone, is present throughout nature. He established Orgonon in Rangeley, Maine in 1942, because he found the pristine environment there suitable for natural scientific research into atmospheric functions. After Reich’s untimely death in 1957, Orgonon became a museum dedicated to preserving the environment where Reich did his research and protecting his personal and scientific legacy.
Orgonon encompasses nearly 200 acres of forest offering nearly 3 miles of nature trails open to the public every day. The museum exhibits are located in the Orgone Energy Observatory, a striking International Style building constructed in 1948 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Museum Hours
The museum is open to visitors during the months of July, August and September.
Your visit is self-guided and estimated to last between 30 and 90 minutes. Over 20 audio and video based exhibits encompassing the history of Wilhelm Reich’s life and work are distributed throughout the three floors of the museum. Each visitor is given a simple audio player allowing them to explore the exhibits at their own pace and according to their individual level of interest. The first floor contains an historical kiosk and many physical exhibits, including two orgone energy accumulators in which visitors are welcome to sit. The second floor contains Wilhelm Reich’s striking study and library, with furnishings, artifacts and books preserved much as a time capsule from the 1950s. The building itself is a unique example of International Style architecture which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A museum store offers books, t-shirts, mugs and other items for sale. Major credit cards and cash accepted.
HOURS
JULY and AUGUST
Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Last admission at 4:15 pm
SEPTEMBER
Saturdays only from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm – Last admission at 4:15 pm
Admission is $10. No advance reservations required. Must be 12 years or older.
Private Visits: Private Visits to the museum may be available outside of regularly scheduled hours, by appointment only, subject to availability of staff. The fee for a Private Visit is $200 for up to 10 people. To inquire about a Private Visit, please email info@wilhelmreichmuseum.org.
ORGONON TRAILS OPEN EVERY DAY DAWN TO DUSK
Click on map below
Directions to The Wilhelm Reich Museum
From Rangeley:
Follow Rts 4 North/16 South toward Oquossoc for 3.6 miles.
Watch for sign for Wilhelm Reich Museum and turn right onto Dodge Pond Rd.
Proceed about 1/3 mile and entrance to ORGONON will be on the left.
From Oquossoc (from Junction of 17 & 4)
Follow Route 4 South toward Rangeley for 3 miles.
Watch for sign for Wilhelm Reich Museum and turn left onto Dodge Pond Rd.
Proceed about 1/3 mile and entrance to ORGONON will be on the left.
Mail, Phone, & Email
Wilhelm Reich Museum
19 Orgonon Circle
P.O. Box 687
Rangeley, ME 04970
19 Orgonon Circle
P.O. Box 687
Rangeley, ME 04970
USA
(207) 864-3443
info@wilhelmreichmuseum.org
