One-Third of the City Burned!
Over 10,000 Left homeless!
City Hall, Every Bank, Every Newspaper, Every Law Office, Almost Every Church Totally Destroyed!
Only Wartime Atlanta had Seen Such a Swath Cut to the Sea!
Portland's GREAT FIRE of 1866 was a landmark of the 19th century, the biggest city blaze in the history of the United States up to that time. The loss was staggering—and the relief effort international. From such ashes, could the city's symbolic PHOENIX ever rise again?
Cities are always evolving, and one catalyst for change is natural disasters such as Portland's July 4th, 1866 fire. They leave a lasting impression on the landscape, culture, and memory. Join Greater Portland Landmarks and Herb Adams for an illustrated remembrance with slides, maps, new information and a reflection on what it took for such people and spirit to restore Longfellow's "City that is seated by the Sea."
Collections of Maine Historical Society, Maine Memory Network Item #22697
EVENT DETAILS
Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Time: 5:00-6:00 PM
Location: Rines Auditorium, Portland Public Library- Downtown Branch, 5 Monument Square, Portland
Fee: $5.00 suggested donation which helps Greater Portland Landmarks continue to offer low-cost programming.
Details: This is an in-person event. Street and garage parking nearby.
Please email Aimée Keithan or call 207.774.5561 with questions!
