1956 Map of Portland West

About this map

Industrial expansion and suburban growth define the corridor between Westbrook and Portland in the mid-1950s. The Presumpscot River serves as a geographic anchor, powering the Cumberland Mills district while the Maine Central RR and Portland Terminal RR networks facilitate heavy transport through Deering Jct. This era shows a landscape in transition, with established educational institutions like Westbrook Junior College and the University of Maine (Portland) surrounded by emerging residential developments such as Sagamore Village. The presence of specialized facilities like the State School for Boys and the Portland International Jetport reflects the diverse civic infrastructure of the period. Coastal features, including Back Cove and the tidal flats of Portland Harbor, remain prominent, though increasingly framed by major roads like the Maine Turnpike.