During World War II, Portland Harbor was a strategic site for several military activities, including: construction of Liberty ships, refueling depots, and artillery defense systems for the southern Maine coast. Peaks Island hosted a military reservation with large batteries (forts) built by the U.S. Coast Artillery armed with 16” guns. Three hours recommended for walking tour option. One and a half hour minimum for Powerpoint presentation and exhibits.
Coney Island of Maine: The Golden Age of Peaks Island, 1880-1920 (E, M, A)
Most people come to Peaks Island today for rest and relaxation. One hundred years ago, however, an amusement park, sixteen hotels, theaters, and hundreds of cottages on Peaks Island attracted an enormous number of tourists. This inquiry-based walking tour will introduce you to historic architecture, historic photographs and documents related to this “golden era” of Peaks Island. Two hours recommended for either walking tour option or the Powerpoint presentation and museum exhibits option.
The Fifth Maine Regiment Museum is the ideal location to learn about Maine’s role in the Civil War. The museum is located in Memorial Hall, the building constructed in 1888 by and for the Civil War veterans of the Fifth Maine Regiment. Pre-arranged programming includes a Powerpoint presentation about the Regiment, as well as a tour of the exhibits in this National Register of Historic Places building. Two hours recommended.
For two centuries prior to Maine statehood in 1820, Casco Bay was a culturally diverse and turbulent place. Come learn how the competition for Casco Bay resources led to warfare and treaties between Wabanaki tribes and early European settlers. Pre-arranged programming includes a Powerpoint presentation and a walking tour. Two hours recommended.
