Portland Observatory

Climb an 1807 octagonal signal tower on Munjoy Hill, the last historic maritime signal station in the US, for harbor views from the lantern.

138 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101 · Portland, ME

About Portland Observatory

Captain Lemuel Moody built this 86-foot octagonal tower on Munjoy Hill in 1807. From its lantern he could spot incoming ships up to 30 miles out with a telescope, then hoist signal flags so merchants could get ready at the wharves. The Moody family ran it until 1923, when radio made it obsolete. It is now the only remaining historic maritime signal station in the United States and a National Historic Landmark. Greater Portland Landmarks runs 45-minute docent tours that climb the stairs floor by floor to the top. Adult tickets are $10, with lower prices for seniors, students, kids and Portland residents.

#signal tower
#maritime history
#national historic landmark
#harbor views
#guided tours

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