Portland Head Light, Maine ~ 2004

By the time we reached Portland Head Light, the sun was shining brightly and the lighthouse was crawling with tourists. This is easily one of the most visited and most photographed lighthouses on the coast of Maine.

Portland Head is Maine's oldest lighthouse, completed in 1787; its first keeper was appointed by George Washington. The 80 foot light you see today contains less than 2/3 of the original fieldstone structure, the light having been shortened and restored twice, after subsequent shipwrecks and public outcry. The top 1/3 is now constructed of brick.

The grounds contain a museum, gift shop, and is adjacent to the remains of Fort Williams.

Alternate view 1 Portland Head with Ram Island Light in the distance.

Alternate view 2 Closeup of Portland Head