![]() ![]() It was first lit on January 10, 1791.Ĭonstruction of the first Keeper's Quarters began in 1790 as the result of a contract signed by Massachusetts Governor John Hancock. The original tower measured 72' from base to lantern deck and was lit with 16 whale oil lamps. In 1790, when the United States Government took over the responsibility of all lighthouses, Congress appropriated $1,500 for its completion. In 1787, the General Court of Massachusetts (the Massachusetts legislature) provided $750 to begin construction of a lighthouse. In 1776, the new Town of Cape Elizabeth posted a guard of eight soldiers at Portland Head to warn citizens of coming British attacks. Cape Elizabeth residents were deeply committed to American independence from British rule. Portland Head has long protected Portland and the adjacent area. (Excerpted from the Museum Guidebook, compiled by Kathleen Rummler) Portland Head Light coastline - Photo by: Richard Morin They are open Monday and Thursday from 9:00 am – Noon and have local and military history exhibits on display. ![]() In October 2022, the Cape Elizabeth Historical Preservation Society moved into the former Bachelor Officers’ Quarters located at the far end of the Parade Ground near the baseball field. ![]() For park hours, maps, and directions, see our contact page. The adjacent ninety-acre Fort Williams Park offers picnic facilities, hiking opportunities, sports and recreation areas, historic structures, and unlimited ocean views. The lighthouse tower is only open to the public one day per year on Maine Open Lighthouse Day. Also on the site is a seasonal shop featuring Maine-related gifts. The award-winning Museum contains a number of lighthouse lenses and interpretative displays. The Museum at Portland Head Light is contained within the former Keepers' Quarters. The Park is open year round from sunrise to sunset. Situated along the spectacular shores of Fort Williams Park, at 1000 Shore Road, the popular landmark is owned and managed by the Town of Cape Elizabeth, Maine. Portland Head Light at Sunset - Photo by: Richard MorinĬape Elizabeth is the home of Portland Head Light. ![]()
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