Maine Day Trip is exploring the historic sites and early history of Portland, Maine. Portland has significant events in its past that helped form the desire for independence and creation of the United States of America. The first British settlement of Portland was in 1628 and statehood was achieved in 1820. During this time, Portland was a very prosperous and growing community overcoming many disasters. The town was destroyed four times, with the latest on July 4, 1865 by fire. This was the largest fire of its time in the U.S., creating 10,000 homeless people. Prior to that, Captain Henry Mowat was responsible for the bombardment of Portland during the American revolution in 1775. Captain Mowat also helped create the greatest American naval disaster, prior to Pearl Harbor, by defeating nineteen U.S. ships in Penobscot Bay, Maine.
Recommended tours include the
Portland Observatory museum (which has nothing to do with astronomy) built in 1807. It is the only remaining maritime signal station in the U.S.
Also,
Victoria Mansion, built in 1858 is an Italian style villa worth a tour. The fully furnished museum is an excellent view of the grand style of a summer cottage built by Ruggles Sylvester Morse who spared no expense in its design, materials, and furnishings. Victoria Mansion is a National Historic Landmark in Portland, Maine.
When you visit Portland, be sure to allow time to take some of these tours. The museum docents are very knowledgeable and are happy to answer your questions.
