What Is the Portland Observatory?
This unique observation tower was a pioneering way for ships at sea to signal their owners onshore for 116 years!
What Makes It Historical?
Before 1807, Portland’s shipowners and merchants had very little time to prepare for the arrival of their goods by sea! After all, the shape of Portland Harbor blocked sight of any inbound ships until they were practically ready to dock. Enter Captain Lemuel Moody, who knew exactly how to capitalize on this conundrum! He arranged for an 86-foot tower to be built on Munjoy Hill, with views stretching thirty miles beyond the obstructing rocks of Spring Point Ledge! For $5 a year, a merchant could subscribe to his observation services. When Captain Moody spotted their ship coming in, he’d hoist each merchant’s signal flag to let them know it was nearly time to unload! This was the standard form of onshore signalling, run by Moody descendants, all the way until 1923 when the two-way radio made the tower obsolete!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Pay the entrance fee to help maintain trails, signs, structures, and other visitor services!
- Volunteer with the Portland History Docents!
- Donate to Greater Portland Landmarks!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
138 Congress St
Portland, ME 04101
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
Your best bet is to visit during the summer when the Observatory is open daily from 10:00 AM until 3:30 PM!
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