The mission of the Abbe Museum is to promote the understanding and appreciation of Maine's Native American culture, history, and archaeology. The Museum's collections, exhibitions, and programs focus on Native American traditions in Maine and explore the broader Native American experience, past and present.
"The Abbe's most critical role is that of a good will ambassador. The museum’s leadership and staff work very hard to maintain a direct connection between the Wabanaki people and the general population interested in learning about them, in the true context of today, as related by the aboriginal people themselves. The Abbe consistently strives to preserve the past, to educate in the present by utilizing the knowledge of Wabanaki people, and to maintain a constant focus for the future."
– Madonna Soctomah, former Representative of the Passamaquoddy Tribe in the Maine Legislature