1893 Map of Portland

About this map

Portland serves as the central hub of a complex coastal network in the late nineteenth century, where maritime trade meets a dense web of industrial rail lines. The landscape is defined by the Presumpscot River and its numerous falls, such as Gambo Falls and Presumpscot Falls, which powered early manufacturing centers like Saccarappa and Cumberland Mills. To the south, the coastline transitions from the urban density of Back Cove and the Fore River toward the summer resorts and seasonal communities of Old Orchard and Ocean Park.