The Portland Observatory, built in 1807 at Portland, Maine, is the last surviving maritime signal tower in the United States. Using both a telescope and signal flags, two way communication between ship and shore was possible several hours before an incoming vessel reached the dock
Portland has a deep harbor sheltered by numerous islands. Ships entering the harbor are not directly visible from the wharfs, which created problems for merchants trying to prepare for the arrival of cargoes.
We climbed to the top, 109 steps.
Saw a model of the observatory tower.
Also we saw that graffiti is not new. This was here since the the first restoration in 1937.
The problem was solved in 1807 when Captain Lemuel Moody organized the construction of an observatory on Portland's Munjoy Hill, visible from bothe open ocean and the wharfs. During the War of 1812, the observatory was used as a watch tower.
Views from the top.
Your could see for miles.
The tower looking up.
And from across the street.
We ended our day in Freeport Maine at the Muddy Rudder Restaurant. Super good day.
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