The Museum at Portland Head Light

The Museum at Portland Head Light is situated on one of the most scenic sections of the Portland shoreline. Located in Cape Elizabeth, less than a half hour drive south of Portland, this museum is contained within the former keeper's quarters of the Portland Head Light, one of the most distinctive and iconic lighthouses along the southern Maine coast. The museum contains artifacts depicting the lives of lighthouse keepers in the days before these legendary structures became automated. Also contained within the museum are a number of lighthouse lenses and interpretative displays. The lighthouse itself is situated in Fort Williams Park. Although now closed, Fort Williams was one of the most important harbor defensive fortifications during World War II and played a major role in defending Portland and surrounding communities. Admission to the museum is nominal and well worth a sightseeing tour for families and adults alike.