https://www.spreaker.com/show/welcome-to-portland-maineenSociety & CultureCopyright izi Distribution Serviceshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7689809436c831eebe9f79556f89f2cd.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/show/welcome-to-portland-maineWed, 20 Oct 2021 14:49:59 +0000izi Distribution Servicesizi Distribution Servicesfeeds@spreaker.comWelcome to the land of the yummiest lobsters on earth – Maine. The state of Maine has plenty of these crustaceans plucked from the cold waters of the gulf. Once its main city was Portland before it was transferred to Augusta in the 1830's. More than...cleanepisodicizi Distribution Servicesfeeds@spreaker.comWelcome to the land of the yummiest lobsters on earth – Maine. The state of Maine has plenty of these crustaceans plucked from the cold waters of the gulf. Once its main city was Portland before it was transferred to Augusta in the 1830's. More than just the economic area, the city serves as the social and cultural center of the state. The city has its own motto: Resurgam, meaning “I will rise again” akin to its seal which is the legendary bird creature, the Phoenix.There are nice places to go around Portland; some take you back in time like the Old Port where you can take a stroll. It’s nice to check out the 19th century buildings, cobblestone streets and fishing harbor. Portland is also famous for its lighthouses with its distinctive features and stories. There are urban homesteads, abandoned warehouses turned into boutiques, and galleries that feature local artists. Licenses:Photo Portland, Maine by Garden State Hiker is licensed under CC BY 2.0 _______Podcast based on audio guide Welcome to Portland, Maine! Author: Travel Communications In the podcast format you may enjoy stories remotely; if you go out and experience the audio tour on location it is adviced to use the izi.TRAVEL application that really guides you and plays stories automaticly based on your positionNohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-14-eastern-promenadecc2000c0-7dd3-4772-8590-d36654c66bdeWed, 23 Dec 2020 13:06:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesInterestingly, the license plates in Eastern Promenade, Portland perfectly describe this favorite tourist spot in one word: Vacationland. This place is truly the perfect vacation getaway for families, couples, friends and whatnots.If you’re out with...101cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesInterestingly, the license plates in Eastern Promenade, Portland perfectly describe this favorite tourist spot in one word: Vacationland. This place is truly the perfect vacation getaway for families, couples, friends and whatnots.If you’re out with your special someone, you might want to wander along Commercial Street. There you will come upon a distinctively romantic fence covered with “love locks” on the waterfront. Just like the ones you find in Paris and a few other cities, these “love locks” serve as professions of love between couples. Make sure to have yours engraved with your names, the date and your love messages to each other.Go down to the waterfront, at Old Port in Portland, and you will come across a piece of the Berlin Wall. The Berlin Wall is the historic wall that once separated East and West Germany. Tradition still remains and the locals still take afternoon strolls with their children to the grassy park on the Eastern Promenade, which provides a perfect view of the historic Casco Bay. This vast expanse of lawn is the perfect spot for everything: picnics, reading your favorite books, Frisbee with friends and pets, watching ferry boats come and go, or simply enjoying the sunset. During low tide, you can enjoy a walk on the nice little city beach that stretches down the slope of this grassy hill.Take a stroll and you will find Fort Allen Park, which is dedicated to the veterans of World War I.Another thing to try is Allen’s Coffee-Flavored Brandy, or popularly known as the “champagne of Maine.” It’s a great souvenir liquor to bring home to your friends.And to your great convenience, parking in Portland is not an issue. Its vast lands provide sufficient parking space both on the streets at metered spots and in parking garages. Plus, the locals are very helpful and tourist-friendly!So this is where we’ll stop. Take a stroll and relax your eyes on the beautiful scenery in front of you.Have a nice day!Photo eastern promenade by mararie is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-13-portland-observatory40b4afbe-fd8a-4a13-9bc6-a194907fb7c3Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:05:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesIf you love History and vistas, go to the Portland Observatory. This maritime signal tower was actually built in the 1800's. It is indeed a structural marvel and it is the only known remaining tower of its kind in the U.S. The Portland Observatory has...90cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesIf you love History and vistas, go to the Portland Observatory. This maritime signal tower was actually built in the 1800's. It is indeed a structural marvel and it is the only known remaining tower of its kind in the U.S. The Portland Observatory has served as a beloved emblem of the city’s opulent maritime heritage. About ten years ago it became a National Historic Landmark. There are different levels and floors on the way up. There are exhibitions of the Portland history on each level. It gets very narrow towards the top but don’t worry because the wooden stairs aren't too hard to traverse. Climbing this tower is totally doable. There are several floors to take a rest on when you needed. The circular stairs are the only way to the upper levels but it’s certainly worth the climb because you’ll see the spectacular view of the harbor and the city. The Portland Observatory is a seven-story brick tower. In the past, it served as a signal tower that warned Portlanders of arriving vessels for fishing, military and merchants. Now it has been restored to reward climbers with the 360-degree panoramic views of the city, Casco Bay and busy harbors. It is now a great educational tower that provides opportunities for visitors to learn about the history of Portland. It is a non-profit organization which preserves the structure of the Portland Observatory. They guide tours and knowledgeably discuss the history of the building. It operates the Observatory as a museum and historic site. The volunteers of Greater Portland Landmarks are trained to facilitate guided tours. They ensure an overall excellent experience for visitors. The exhibits are intended to give information on the Portland tower’s history and maintenance.Photo portland observatory by charlie vinz is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-12-eastern-cemetery5e1b534f-b8f3-4adb-aea2-b879f27001f7Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:04:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesAnd now, we are here at the Eastern Cemetery. This cemetery is not just meant to bury the dead. Today it is visited by hundreds of people from different places, not just to visit their loved ones, but also to learn about the history of the city. Did...121cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesAnd now, we are here at the Eastern Cemetery. This cemetery is not just meant to bury the dead. Today it is visited by hundreds of people from different places, not just to visit their loved ones, but also to learn about the history of the city. Did you know that the Eastern Cemetery has been serving our dearly departed since early times? And yes, it is the oldest cemetery in the city with more than 4000 burial ground plots. The cemetery’s walls and fences are made with both iron and stones, which still dates back from the time it was built. And the gravestones? They are hand-carved. And guess what, some tombs are so strong-built, they can carry up to 30 bodies each. This idea is designed for families who want the bodies of their loved ones be put in one location. Families who want this setup would have to buy a tomb and it had to be dug out every time a new relative passes away. Each of these tombs has its own stairways leading to its private location. Capt. Lemuel, the designer and brainchild of the Portland Observatory is laid in one. In here lies notable persons in the state and the country. Capt. Alden, Jr is buried here. He was the steadfast blockader during the Mexican-American and Civil Wars and a commander of US Survey Ship Active, and a Portlander since birth. Another notable is Lt. William Ward Burrows II. He commanded the USS Enterprise in the US War of 1812 and was killed a year later during the Capture of HMS Boxer. Several US congressmen are also laid in this ground such as George Bradbury, Mark Harris, John Holmes, Daniel Ilsley, and William Widgery. If you still have time to roam around this evening, there will be evening and ghost tours here and in other cemeteries. It’s a great yet spooky experience you don’t want to miss. And yes, you can bring your children. We make it possible that the security in this area is stalwart and you don’t have to worry about getting bitten by a zombie. And please, no pets inside!On our west end neighborhood is the Western Cemetery—another historical landmark in the city, which was established in the 18th century. It’s a 4.9 hectare land with several well-known personalities laid to rest here such as Samuel Longfellow, Stephen Longfellow, Elijah Kellog, and Prentiss Mellen.Photo Eastern Cemetery, Portland by Bruce Washburn is licensed under CC BY 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-11-residence-inn-portland-downto3c9b5ad6-08b0-4485-ab05-54986023ac36Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:03:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesThe Residence Inn is the only hotel that offers all suite rooms. The hotel is near the Portland Museum of Art and 4.8 miles drive from Portland International Airport. The facilities are clean and it comes with polished studios with kitchens, desks and...40cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesThe Residence Inn is the only hotel that offers all suite rooms. The hotel is near the Portland Museum of Art and 4.8 miles drive from Portland International Airport. The facilities are clean and it comes with polished studios with kitchens, desks and pull-out sofas. Free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV’s, iPod docks are also available for your comfort.Free hot breakfast is offered and a weekday social night with snacks and the convenient stores are also accessible where you can have grocery delivery service. The hotel is pet friendly so you can bring along your pets if you have one. The Residence Inn Portland Downtown is also near tourist attractions such as the birthplace of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Casco Bay Lines Ferry terminal.Photo Hotel by Osvaldo Gago is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-10-hampton-inn-portland-downtown032b20d1-344b-4b01-ac35-21ad53df0952Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:02:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesThis is probably one of the many places you want to stay overnight. This contemporary hotel is just 0.9 miles far from Children’s Museum, the Theatre of Maine, and the Portland Museum of Art. You can also see the magnificent view Casco Bay and famous...38cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesThis is probably one of the many places you want to stay overnight. This contemporary hotel is just 0.9 miles far from Children’s Museum, the Theatre of Maine, and the Portland Museum of Art. You can also see the magnificent view Casco Bay and famous waterfront from here. This hotel is accessible to cobblestone streets where you can visit many boutiques, relaxing cafés, museums, and galleries; and you can watch in theaters of Maine in less than a mile.Pamper yourself with the relaxing bed here in Hampton Inn where larger guest rooms, suites, and accessible rooms are available. This hotel is convenient for conference meetings, family vacations, fitness, and recreation.Photo Hotel by Osvaldo Gago is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-9-portland-trailsc8268606-870e-4a26-8f66-893f26b10397Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:01:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesAnd because we cannot visit everything you need to see here in Portland, let’s just take you to another place where you can be in-tuned with nature—the Portland Trails. No, we are not physically going there. We’ll just give you enough details just so...86cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesAnd because we cannot visit everything you need to see here in Portland, let’s just take you to another place where you can be in-tuned with nature—the Portland Trails. No, we are not physically going there. We’ll just give you enough details just so you want to visit the place if you still have the time. Portland Trails is another adventure you may want to delve into while you stay here in Portland. There is so much more the city has to offer and that is to get intimate with nature. Portland Trails gives you the path to different ecological resources of the city such as the Auburn Riverwalk.Behind the Hilton Garden Inn, at the center of Auburn, you can find this lovely river walk. Starting from the north, where the Great Falls of the Androscoggin are located, going through the Lewiston’s Railroad Park. This whole trail is a path where you can find variety of canopies during the fall season and summer time.Another trail is the Conway Branch. The Conway Branch runs from State Route 113 in Conway to Polly’s Crossing in Ossipee. This trail is best for hikers and snowmobilers. Some speeders use the track of Ossipee area for recreational use. While the large speeders use the track in Madison. Another one (but definitely, not the last one) is the Dover Community Trail. Starting from Fisher Street heading north, this trail connects the residents from Dover’s southern neighborhood to the city’s Transportation Center. The trail goes parallel to Six Street, passing the Dover Cassily Community Garden, the Beckwith Ballfields, and the Enterprise Park. The trail ends at Watson road. And these are just some of the best trails you must check out!Photo Prince Tuesday Collaboration & Portland Trails Trail Work Day by Allagash Brewing is licensed under CC BY 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-8-the-old-port34f8e065-7429-4be1-962f-5dd1a282be12Wed, 23 Dec 2020 13:00:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesThe Old Port can be found along Casco Bay and Fore River. It is now a commercial district with lots of bars and boutiques. This place is frequented by visitors especially during the Old Port’s festival. The Old Port festival has been going on for more...113cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesThe Old Port can be found along Casco Bay and Fore River. It is now a commercial district with lots of bars and boutiques. This place is frequented by visitors especially during the Old Port’s festival. The Old Port festival has been going on for more than 40 years and is still going strong. If you want to eat some of the best lobster rolls on the planet then you should be here during the festivities. One of the Old Port festival’s goal is to produce the biggest lobster roll in the world. Seeing one come to life is surely an amazing experience. The Old Port also known as Old Port Exchange is a district of Portland. Many tourists are delighted with the baroque mansions and breathtaking ocean views. The paths are flourishing with cobblestones and old brick buildings. Although the region is not very modern, you can still enjoy the street life with its book stores, craft shops and brew pubs. If you wish to unwind, it is idyllic to take scenic cruises, whale watches or ferry trips to the islets in Casco Bay. The amazing Portland Head Light is a must-visit because it is the oldest lighthouse in the United States and yet is still functional. The great poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a native of Old Port and his childhood home called Wadsworth-Longfellow House is open for a public visit. Victoria Mansion, one of the most important historic homes, is also located in Old Port.Every year, the Old Port festival is celebrated. In 2009, the locals created the largest lobster roll in the world! They produced a 61-feet and 9.5-inches long lobster roll using 48-pounds of pure lobster meat and 4-gallons of mayonnaise. Each piece of the lobster roll was sold for the benefit of a youth association. The festival marks the beginning of the summer and the Old Port becomes even more cheerful with various music stages. The streets are usually filled with Maine-made food like ethnic appetizers and the sumptuous curries from Indian restaurants are highly recommended. A big mug of fresh and icy lemonade is the favorite thirst quencher of tourists and locals.Photo Portland by Peter Dutton is licensed under CC BY 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-7-portland-public-library361cd544-8b5a-4d09-a524-f28cc520cbe7Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:59:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesSo this is the Portland Public Library. The Portland Public Library is the main library of the city, and is located here at 5 Monument Way. In this building over 94 staff members are here to assist people who love reading and books. The library has...65cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesSo this is the Portland Public Library. The Portland Public Library is the main library of the city, and is located here at 5 Monument Way. In this building over 94 staff members are here to assist people who love reading and books. The library has three branches located at Burbank Branch, Riverton Branch and Peaks Island branch. They also have a portable library. The population served by the library reaches about 66,194, meaning, the library is visited not just by residents of the city but also tourists.The library was assimilated by Ichabod Nicholas and company in the early 1800's and later on the attendant, or librarian, was James Merill. In the early years there were about 10,647 volumes of books stored in the library. The library is rich in photographs, manuscripts, local periodicals, printed books, maps, archival documents, and catalogues that advertise the evolution and history of Portland.In addition the Portland public library administer free library cards to residents and gives service to schools, academic, public and to tourists who wanted to experience a beautiful ambiance of the city library.Photo NewPortlandPublicLibrary by TM is licensed under CC0 1.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-6-maine-historical-society-and-tb4118379-b76d-4e14-b861-62761cc11924Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:58:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesThe Old Port, Portland Maine is a district with thriving historical, artistic and cultural venues. If you are looking for a research emporium in Old Port, visit the Maine Historical Society. Just next door, don’t forget to visit one of Maine’s main...93cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesThe Old Port, Portland Maine is a district with thriving historical, artistic and cultural venues. If you are looking for a research emporium in Old Port, visit the Maine Historical Society. Just next door, don’t forget to visit one of Maine’s main jewels, the Wadsworth-Longfellow House. Both has made noteworthy contributions to the civil, literary, and artistic life in New England as well as the United States.There is a lot to enjoy about visiting this wonderful historic center. It is also known as the great little museum and library. This is the best place to check out if you wish to step back in time and learn more about the history of Maine and Portland. Maine-made historical gifts and quality books are available here. The staffs are knowledgeable and informative. This is one of the most terrific cultural resources in Portland. It is a compact place with many rooms. It offers a very extensive research library and well curated gallery. Nice artifacts are displayed and they also exhibit the narrative of the civil war. For literature lovers, this historical house in Old Port is a must-visit. It is a two–story building with an oblique roof. It is also the first house in Portland that was made entirely of bricks. The structure and its furniture are well preserved. It is the childhood home of the great poet Wadsworth-Longfellow. The house is filled with the family’s own possessions and traces of his boyhood. It is also the best place where you can read the literary pieces of Wadsworth-Longfellow. The house has also served as a significant architectural relic of New England's past. The beautifully landscaped Longfellow garden had been a home farmyard for the Wadsworth Longfellow family. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1962.Photo Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Portland, ME is licensed under Public domainNohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-5-portland-s-downtown-district928a0a73-a0bb-44bc-b1fc-18a0254e8f07Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:57:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesWelcome to Portland’s Downtown District, where everything about Maine—from its history and the present are all rolled out into one place. In fact, if you are here, there is nothing much to ask for, really. It’s like an outdoor gigantic mall where...69cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesWelcome to Portland’s Downtown District, where everything about Maine—from its history and the present are all rolled out into one place. In fact, if you are here, there is nothing much to ask for, really. It’s like an outdoor gigantic mall where there are lots of food stalls and fine dining restaurants to fill our bellies, clothing stores everywhere, home depots, and theaters. Only the Portland Downtown District has an amazing view of the waterfront. Here, you will see antique shops. If you ever have rare collections that you want to update or want to sell, this is the perfect place to stay. And speaking of antiques, you will see that Portland Downtown is exactly the opposite of New York, Las Vegas, and other modern, technology-inspired cities. Portland Downtown still has its history intact. The building, the churches, the cobblestone streets, the schools, the downtown trains, the artwork, and even the culture—it’s very different from the other bustling cities. So if you want to live in a city where everyone is not so engrossed and attached with digital media so much, always put Portland in your priority list. Why? You can get to see and savor all this goodness and more. And the view of the waterfront, which is just a few steps from here, where can you get that in LA or NYC?Photo Downtown Portland 25 by AlexiusHoratius is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-4-children-s-museum-and-theatre-532e39c7-2fe0-4a98-b26d-011ae1e4237dWed, 23 Dec 2020 12:56:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesPortland today is known for many tourist spots where families and friends can enjoy their weekend vacation. And there is this specific place where your kids can enjoy and at the same time learn about the history of the State and the City—the...77cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesPortland today is known for many tourist spots where families and friends can enjoy their weekend vacation. And there is this specific place where your kids can enjoy and at the same time learn about the history of the State and the City—the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine. We are now at 142 Free Street Portland, in the art district of downtown, the exact location where this theater and museum are located.The museum was established in the late 60's; however, the Theatre of Maine was established much earlier. The place is full of activities and collective exhibits where families and kids would enjoy and learn. This museum and theatre exists to inspire kids to do art, to explore, to be curious, and to be creative in their imaginations. This establishment was also built for educators and families to help create a better community committed to the learning and development of every child.The Children’s Museum of Maine is recommended for kids because the gallery is highly interactive. For the artistically inclined, the Portland Museum of Art is worth visiting. It may look small but it prides itself with diverse impressionist works. Another venue for art is the Space gallery, it is a contemporary art museum. It offers visual art exhibits, music and performance art, film screening and public forums. The First Friday Art Walk is an art event that is held on the first Friday of every month. It parades new creative pieces from local artists.Photo CMTM exterior 006 by Kitetails is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-3-portland-museum-of-art42fed22b-77ba-4b2d-9ff2-b274d4ee0195Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:55:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesWhether you are a rising artist or you simply need art inspiration in your life, the Portland Museum of Art is a great place to go. It is located in the center of downtown. In the 1980’s, support for creative communities in Portland increased. The...133cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesWhether you are a rising artist or you simply need art inspiration in your life, the Portland Museum of Art is a great place to go. It is located in the center of downtown. In the 1980’s, support for creative communities in Portland increased. The museum now flaunts over 17,000 works of art from surrealism to impressionism to contemporary art, furniture, glass and ceramic ware. The integration of art to Portland is a necessary requirement. The art should be Maine’s and Maine is the art.The Winslow Homer Studio operated by the Portland Museum of Art. Winslow Homer or Hermit of Prouts Neck is an amazing artist that has great influence on American art. His creative works has focused on exploring people’s life-and-death battle against the sea. He also became interested with the elemental force of nature which made him driven to create numerous marine narratives such as The Life Line, The Herring Net and Eight Bells. At the Winslow Homer Studio, you can find surviving furnishings and interpretive materials that belonged to him. The “Snakes Snakes Mice!” sign that he once installed in his yard is now displayed at the studio. You can also create your own Maine-inspired art at this studio. It is a two-story balcony where artists can enjoy lovely scenes of the ocean and rocky shoreline. The studio is open to artists who wish to enhance their crafts. Here you can take pictures, make sketches or paint while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes. This art studio embraces the creative vision of the Portland Museum of Art. Visiting the place can also help you better understand the artistic heritage of Maine. To create art in Portland is to become part of that heritage. In fact, this point is called The Arts District. It is a location filled with art exhibits and galleries, it also has a museum and one of Maine’s most famous schools, the Maine College of Art. This place is easily accessible because it is located at the heart of the city.The Greater Portland Landmark is known for its artsy feel. There are museums, a theater, and art school. Thanks to this smart design, most tourists often call Portland as the Art City of the world. The Art District in itself sees thousands of visitors every day. This place is so rich in museums, galleries, and historic structures, you will never want to leave the place. A few more trademarks, which are a must-see if you are staying in Portland, are Tom Villeux, Susan Maash Fine Art, Stan Lieberman Fine Arts, and Sarajo.Photo Portland Art Museum by Tom Brandt is licensed under CC BY 2.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-2-greater-portland-landmarks0ca86f5c-1b4b-4e78-9493-97a91325d294Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:54:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesAnd so, here we are. Welcome to Greater Portland Landmarks! This place is home to a lot of tourist destinations ranging from classic Victorian era buildings and structures as well as spacious parks and sporting arenas. Greater Portland is a bustling...34cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesAnd so, here we are. Welcome to Greater Portland Landmarks! This place is home to a lot of tourist destinations ranging from classic Victorian era buildings and structures as well as spacious parks and sporting arenas. Greater Portland is a bustling metropolitan area in the city with a population of more than half a million people. Some of the famous sites visited by tourists are here, which we will also pass by and visit along the way. But unfortunately, we can’t take two of the most important landmarks today, so allow me to give you a brief background of these points as we take High St. for a three-minute walk towards our next destination.Photo Portland-Head-Lighthouse by Rapidfire is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0Nohttps://www.spreaker.com/user/13721751/episode-1-victoria-mansion6b0458c1-7e12-4095-b9bb-88434fe6db32Wed, 23 Dec 2020 12:53:12 +0000izi Distribution ServicesOver on this side, we have Victoria Mansion. This mansion was built by a man named Ruggles Sylvester Morse. Mr. Morse was a Main native who made his fortune through his ventures in Luxury Hotels in New Orleans. This mansion was meant as a summer home...163cleanfullizi Distribution ServicesOver on this side, we have Victoria Mansion. This mansion was built by a man named Ruggles Sylvester Morse. Mr. Morse was a Main native who made his fortune through his ventures in Luxury Hotels in New Orleans. This mansion was meant as a summer home for Mr. Morse. It was built during the late 50's to early 60's. This building was designed by architect Henry Austin.Henry Austin was a well-known architect who specializes in Italianate designs. His designs were very famous but none was comparable to the fame enjoyed by Victoria Mansion.Did you know that the mansion was supposed to be transformed into a gasoline station? Well as a matter of fact it was. Dr. William H. Holmes bought the property and preserved it, with the assistance of his sister. Dr. Holmes opened the property to the public as a museum. The museum was said to have been opened in honor of Queen Victoria, hence the name Victoria Mansion.Before the building was called Victoria mansion, it was known as the Morse-Libby House. After Mr. Morse died, his wife sold the property to J.R. Libby. The Libby family resided in the mansion for some time while keeping most of the original furnishings intact. Very little has changed inside and outside the mansion, even though two families have stayed in it. It wasn’t until sometime in 1938 where it was struck by a hurricane where it was in danger of losing its integrity as a building. Luckily it was bought and restored by Dr. Holmes in the 1940’s.In 1971, the mansion was officially declared as a historic landmark for its well-preserved structure and furnishings. In the entire country, the Victoria mansion has some of the most unspoiled prewar Italianate designs that can rarely be seen anywhere else in the world.The mansion is open for students to learn more about the nineteenth century. It is the best place for students to learn as it houses some of the well-kept artifacts of that era. Students from all over the country come here to visit this remarkable site.Here is something you would like to know. There are exclusive tour packages arranged for people who are interested to learn more about the house and its history. It is a very interesting and extensive tour. The tour has different stories and folklore told about the Victoria mansion and the people who lived in it. If you are interested you might as well check it out. Performances are scheduled during Fridays and Saturdays with prices ranging from $22 down to $10.With its impressive architectural design and untarnished furnishing, you would certainly be intrigued as to how such a beautiful and delicate structure could have survived through all these years. Inside the mansion are some of the oldest furnishings that are majestically kept intact. From the chandelier, to the railings and staircases, everything is perfectly preserved. Visiting this mansion will surely give you a taste of how it felt to live during the nineteenth century.The Victoria Manson is a place tourists should not miss. It is a mansion that is more than three centuries old. Educational tours and storytelling are some of the common programs conducted at the Victoria mansion. If you want to hear some inspiring tales then you might want to book a ticket at one of their events.Photo Victoria Release Party at Victoria Mansion by Allagash Brewing is licensed under CC BY 2.0No