Portland Observatory

No, you don't need to adjust your glasses, but you do need to save the date!

What you're seeing is a historic image of the "Faith" statue in Hallowell—brought to life in 3D. This is just one glimpse of what awaits you at Portland Unlocked, Greater Portland Landmarks' upcoming fundraising event.

On Tuesday, June 23, Maine State Museum Director Bernard Fishman will take you on a journey through rare stereograph images from the mid-to-late 1800s and early 1900s—photographs you've likely never seen, presented in breathtaking 3D. The centerpiece presentation, "Historic Maine in 3D", happens inside the magnificent The Portland Masonic, one of Portland's most storied and long-hidden gems, in its original plush velvet seating, surrounded by Masonic murals and woodwork that have to be seen to be believed. And getting there you'll ride elevators of the same manufacture as those aboard the Titanic.

Want to go deeper? Only 50 VIP tickets are available for an exclusive private tour and a special reception with Bernard in the stunning Billiards Room — crystal chandeliers, leather couches, and yes, billiards tables included. VIP tickets go on sale May 26, with general admission following on May 28.

This is a rare chance to step inside Maine's past—literally—while supporting the organization that works to preserve these irreplaceable spaces. Don't miss it.

Check our website for more information as it becomes available: https://www.portlandlandmarks.org/portlandunlocked

This Saturday, May 16th! Do you live or work on Munjoy Hill? Do you walk by the Observatory and think "someday, I've got to visit"? Make Saturday that day! The Observatory is holding a special pre-season open day for Munjoy Hill residents and workers. We'll be open from 11:00am-3:00pm for self-guided tours. Admission for Munjoy Hill residents and workers is FREE. Come meet our friendly docents and staff, learn about the history of the Observatory and your neighborhood, and see the best view in Portland. Put on in collaboration with the Munjoy Hill Neighborhood Organization. We hope to see you there!

Contact [email protected] with questions.

Planning your trip to the Observatory and can't quite wait until we open on May 23rd? Check out "The Last One Standing," a documentary about the Observatory created by SMCC students Noah Bonnell, Keegan Pierce, Kyle Scott, and Abe Huff. They did such a great job interviewing site manager Peg and docent Daphne and highlighting our special building.

Check out the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YEWWaweYFw&t=40s

We're hiring! If you have a deep love of history, enjoy helping people, and want to help care for one of Portland's most beloved landmarks, consider applying for a position as a site manager with us! Click on the link to learn more.

Application materials will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will be open until the positions are filled.

https://www.portlandlandmarks.org/site-manager-portland-observatory

Image: Site manager Kori and docent Tim point out Portland landmarks from the top of the Observatory.