The house and gallery of the Historical Society, just next door, are open June through October. Civil War Gen. Neal Dow is best known in Maine for having spearheaded the prohibition law here. But his house, built in 1829 and run by the Women's Christian Temperance Union, is best known as a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. All the furnishings are original, including family portraits and paintings and Civil War memorabilia. Book lovers will gawk at the extensive library.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted.
The house is open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM year round, and the average tour lasts 30 minutes. If you want to know more about the historic buildings that line the city's downtown area, pick up a free walking tour brochure that points out the fine architecture of the surrounding buildings. Five different booklets focus on the development of different areas of the city such as the Old Port, Congress Street and the west end. Portland Landmarks also maintains a research library for designers and developers.