Artifacts. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society
Exhibit. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society
Exhibit. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society
Exhibit. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society
Garden. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society
Gift Shop. Photo Provided by Maine Historical Society

Maine Historical Society

We preserve the heritage and history of Maine: the stories of Maine people, the traditions of Maine communities, and the record of Maine’s place in a changing world. Maine Historical Society is the third oldest historical society in the United States. It is comprised of the Longfellow House, home of 19th-century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow; the Brown Library; the MHS Museum and Shop; and the Maine Memory Network, a statewide digital museum.

Travel Trade > Maine Historical Society
Contact

489 Congress St
Portland, ME 04101

P. (207) 774-1822

About Us

Restored to the 1850s, the Longfellow House was the childhood home of renowned 19th century poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Built in 1785-86 by the poet’s grandfather, General Peleg Wadsworth, the house is one of the oldest brick structures on Portland’s peninsula.

Guided tours of the house, decorated with original furnishings and family memorabilia, offer a unique glimpse into the life of the poet and his family, as well as into the cultural and social history of 19th century Portland. Longfellow’s poetry and the context of his work are woven throughout the presentation.

Admission includes entrance to the museum exhibit of Maine history at the Maine Historical Society. During the warmer months, visitors are also invited to stroll through the lovely Longfellow Garden.

Group Tour Information:

  • Coaches are asked to discharge passengers at the bus stop on Congress Street after Brown Street where they will be met by Maine Historical Society staff. Staff can assist with vans needing wheel chair access at Brown Street sidewalk ramp.
  • A $25 non-refundable deposit is required. A credit card payment option is also available. If you need to cancel your reservation, a 24 hour notice would be appreciated.
  • Please call 207-774-1822 to make arrangements.