Union Station
Postcard image depicting Union Station, 1910. The brick building just visible in the background still stands.
Interior of Union Station, 1890. Image courtesy Maine Memory Net.
The tower falling during demolition of Union Station in 1961. This image galvanized the preservation movement in Portland and the action behind it led to the founding of Greater Portland Landmarks.
Built in 1888 to serve the Boston and Maine, Maine Central, and Portland and Ogdensburg Rail Roads. In response to general transportation trends and increased car ownership, Maine Central Railroad, the last holdout, ceased passenger service to Portland in 1960 and began selling off its properties. The station was torn down in 1961 to make way for a shopping center. Today all that remains of the station is the clock, housed in Congress Square Park and the shed, which now serves as the pavilion at Thompson’s Point. The demolition led to the organization of Greater Portland Landmarks and rallied public support for preserving Portland’s architectural character.