From Apply Now,
Your Guide to Portland, ME.
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If you haven't lived in the Portland area long, you might wonder what that octagonal wooden tower on Munjoy Hill is. This distinctive Portland landmark is the Portland Observatory, the country's last remaining maritime signal tower. In 2006, the Portland Observatory was named as a National Historic Landmark.

Built in 1807 on Munjoy Hill on the eastern end of the Portland peninsula, the 86-foot tower, which stands 240 feet above sea level, was used to identify ships entering the harbor.

The lantern deck on top of the tower contained a telescope that allowed monitors to see thirty miles out to sea in good weather. Various colored signal flags were then used to signal ship owners that their ship was coming in, and allowed merchants to arrange for a dock and equipment to be available so goods could be unloaded and reloaded quickly and efficiently.

Today the 193-year-old observatory is open to the public, in season. The 103-step climb to the top is well worth the sweeping view of Portland and Casco Bay, but if you can't make the climb, you can still enjoy the first floor exhibits and gift shop. There's also a web cam at the top of the tower if the Observatory is closed and you'd like to make a virtual visit.

In 1994, authorities discovered that years of moisture and an infestation of powder post beetles had seriously damaged the building. Architects and historic preservationists developed a plan for saving the building and Greater Portland Landmarks, which now manages the historic site, spearheaded the restoration efforts. Five years and 1.2 million dollars later, the Observatory is once again a solid sentinel overlooking Portland's harbor.

The Portland Observatory is located at 138 Congress Street. There is a small admission fee. Hours are daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Memorial Day to Columbus Day (closed on 4th of July). Call 774-5561 extension 41 for details.

A book about the Observatory's builder, Captain Lemuel Moody, and the history of the Observatory can be purchased at the gift shop.

Greater Portland Landmarks is a non-profit organization whose mission is to "enrich the quality of life in Portland and surrounding communities by promoting the appreciation, preservation and appropriate use of historic structures and landscapes."

The Great Portland Landmarks Web site includes several walking tours of Portland, including a map, photos of historic buildings and landmarks, and directions. Take the Churches Tour, the Congress Street Tour, the Old Port/Exchange Tour, or the Western Promenade Tour.