Discover the history hidden beneath the cobblestone streets of downtown Portland, Maine. The Old Port district whispers tales of colonial fires and revolutionary newspapers printed at sea, echoing around the Customs House and the piers that once symbolised a rugged seafaring life. Trace the steps of this resilient settlement as it weathered an invasion during a forgotten war, perilous Atlantic crossings, and even a riot over rum.
As you ascend the hilly streets of the historic district, let the stories unfold naturally. Pause at intriguing spots or take a break to savour lobster rolls. Each unassuming building and monument unveils a turbulent chapter of America's early years. Get acquainted with the personalities behind each one - from the church where abolitionists condemned slavery, to a modest merchant's house that welcomed determined suffragettes, to Monument Square which honours Civil War bravery.
Visitors are initially drawn to Portland for its charming brick-and-cobblestone streets and seafood delicacies. However, they leave raving about the city's deeply artistic soul. This small city has been home to painters, sculptors, and even an unexpected film director. And then there's Maine's beloved poet; traces of Longfellow can be found throughout the city, from One Longfellow Square to the Wadsworth-Longfellow House.