Contributed by Maine Historical Society
Description
The Portland Observatory was used for observing ships entering the harbor and watching for vessels in distress. Captain Lemuel Moody, who lived on the property with his family, charged a fee for displaying the flags of merchants whose vessels were approaching the harbor. This signal allowed the owner time to make arrangements for the necessary dock space, as well as finding men to unload, or load, the cargo. By 1848, there were over 100 shipowners and captains whose flags were flown at the Observatory.
About This Item
- Title: Signals at the Portland Observatory, 1846
- Creation Date: 1846
- Subject Date: 1846
- Location: Portland, Cumberland County, ME
- Media: Art on paper
- Dimensions: 41 cm x 55 cm
- Local Code: GA137
- Object Type: Image
Cross Reference Searches
Standardized Subject Headings
- Navigation
- Observatories
- Signal Flags
- Merchant ships
- Flags--England
- Signals and signalling--Maine--Portland
- Sailing ships
- Flags--France
- Flags
For more information about this item, contact:
Maine Historical Society485 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
(207) 774-1822 x230
Website
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