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
Our 2025 Season Begins: Wednesday, July 2nd
Museum Hours:
- Summer (July & August):
- Open: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday
- Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:15 PM)
- Early Fall (September):
- Open: Saturdays ONLY
- Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:15 PM)
Admission & Visiting Details:
- Entry Fee: $10 per person (Cash or Card accepted).
- Walk-Ins Welcome: No advance reservations are needed during our regular operating hours for individuals and small groups.
- Age Guidance: The museum’s content is best suited for visitors aged 12 and older. Exceptions may be considered for younger, well-supervised children; please speak with staff upon arrival if this applies to your group.
- Group Visits: Please note our museum capacity is 25 visitors at one time. If you plan to visit with a large group, we strongly recommend contacting us in advance at info@wilhelmreichmuseum.org. Otherwise, your group may experience delays or need to enter in smaller numbers.
Your Museum Experience:
- Self-Paced Exploration: Your visit is self-guided, typically lasting 30 to 90 minutes. We provide each visitor with a simple audio player to engage with over 20 audio and video exhibits spread across three floors. Explore at a depth that suits your interest!
- What You’ll See:
- Ground Floor: Engage with historical kiosks, see unique physical artifacts, and experience sitting within two authentic Orgone Energy Accumulators.
- Second Floor: Be transported back to the 1950s as you enter Wilhelm Reich’s striking study and library, preserved with original furnishings, books, and personal items.
- Historic Building: The museum is housed in a distinctive International Style building, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Museum Shop: Find a curated selection of books (including Reich’s own writings), apparel, souvenirs, and more.
Exclusive Private Visits:
- Experience the museum outside of public hours with a private visit.
- Availability: By appointment only, dependent on staff availability.
- Cost: $200 for a group of up to 20 individuals for a duration of up to 90 minutes.
- Booking: To inquire about scheduling a private visit, please contact us at info@wilhelmreichmuseum.org.
- Scheduling: Private visits will not be available prior to opening day on July 2nd, and are offered only during warmer months, through about October.
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
