An Observatory docent speaks about Captain Lemuel Moody. Once a waterboy on a ship during the revolutionary war, Moody moved up the ranks until he had his own ship. He retired to his hometown of Portland and built the Observatory in 1807.
Children make flags during the Flag Day festivities. Signal flags were used at the Obervatory to notify ship owners when their cargo was nearing port.
Children with their hand-decorated flags on Flag Day, June 14, 2009.
Flag Day is a fun family event!
This little girl made a flag with her mom.
Kids look longingly at the 200th anniversary cake - shaped like the Observatory. Flag Day, June 14, 2007.
A view from the top of the lantern overlooking Portland harbor.
A view of the Compass Rose, where the original telescope used by Captain Moody once hung. The telescope was lost sometime after 1938.
Visitors stop at the top of the tower to enjoy the expansive view of Portland and its harbor.
David Peloquin roams throughout the Observatory on Flag Day. Peloquin’s sea songs and historical tales are entertaining for all ages.