Portland was originally known as Machigonne, meaning Great Neck, by the Native American people who first lived there. In 1632, the British arrived and established a fishing and trading settlement called Casco, later changing the name again to Falmouth. In 1675, the Wampanoag people destroyed the settlement and as quickly as it was rebuilt destroyed it again. In 1775, the city was destroyed yet again during the American Revolution. Following the war, the area began to develop as a commercial port and shipping center and in 1786 a group of citizens broke off from Falmouth and formed a separate town named Portland.
For a while life was good in Portland. Then on July 4, 1866, fireworks ignited a great fire that once again destroyed most of the city leaving 10,000 people homeless. Maine’s rugged fortitude persevered. Portland was rebuilt stronger than before with Victorian style brick buildings and huge Victorian mansions along the promenade. Today, Portland is one of the most beautiful cities in the northeastern United States. Much of the Victorian architecture has been meticulously preserved. A strong sense of community, progressive outlook and scenic beauty make it easy to see why Portland consistently ranks high on “most distinctive places to visit” and “perfect places to live” lists.
