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Frechette Chimney
Sweeping & Lining

Portland Observatory – A Historic Landmark in Maine

Explore the Portland Observatory

Located in Portland, Maine, the Portland Observatory is a historic maritime signal tower and a unique piece of New England’s past. Standing at 86 feet tall, this octagonal wooden tower has offered breathtaking views of Portland and Casco Bay since 1807. It is the only remaining historic maritime signal station in the United States, making it a must-visit site for history lovers and tourists alike.

The History of Portland Observatory

Built by Captain Lemuel Moody, the Portland Observatory was designed to help merchants identify ships arriving in the harbor before they reached the docks. Before modern communication methods like radios and telegraphs, this tower used signal flags and telescopes to relay messages between ship captains and businesses onshore.

The observatory remained in use until 1923, when technological advancements made its function obsolete. After nearly a century of preservation efforts, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006 and is now managed by Greater Portland Landmarks. Today, visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city, harbor, and surrounding islands.

For more details, visit their website.

Why Visit the Portland Observatory?

  • Unmatched Views – Enjoy a 360-degree view of Portland, Casco Bay, and beyond.
  • Rich Maritime History – Learn about Maine’s seafaring past and the importance of ship signaling.
  • Guided Tours – Engage with expert guides who share fascinating stories about the tower’s past.
  • Family-Friendly Destination – A great spot for students, families, and history enthusiasts.

Whenver you get a chance, be sure to catch a game at the Hadlock Field.

Keep Your Home Cozy with Professional Gas Fireplace Repair

A gas fireplace is a fantastic way to keep your home warm and inviting, but over time, it may need repairs and maintenance to operate safely and efficiently. Frechette Chimney Sweeping offers expert gas fireplace repair services in the Portland, ME area, ensuring your unit functions properly and keeps your home comfortable. Whether it’s a pilot light issue, gas leak, or burner malfunction, our trained technicians can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

Don’t let a faulty fireplace leave you in the cold! Contact us today for reliable gas fireplace repairs.

Driving Directions from Portland Observatory to Frechette Chimney Sweeping

  1. Head south on Congress St toward Washington Ave.
  2. Turn right onto Washington Ave.
  3. Merge onto I-295 S via the ramp to South Portland.
  4. Continue onto I-95 S (Maine Turnpike).
  5. Take Exit 19 for ME-109 toward Sanford/Wells.
  6. Turn right onto ME-109 N (Sanford Rd).
  7. Continue straight onto Main St.
  8. Frechette Chimney Sweeping will be on your left at 1550 Main St, Sanford, ME 04073.

Visit the Portland Observatory for a journey into Maine’s maritime past, then ensure your home stays warm and efficient with expert gas fireplace repair from Frechette Chimney Sweeping!


Frechette Chimney Sweeping
1550 Main St, Sanford, ME 04073
(207) 608-0564