Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Statue

The Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Statue is prominently situated in Longfellow Square, at the intersection of Congress Street and State Street in downtown Portland, Maine. This area is part of the city's vibrant Arts District, making it a central and easily accessible landmark.

Yes, there are two prominent man-made monuments dedicated to Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The one in Portland, Maine, was sculpted by Franklin Simmons and dedicated in 1888. It depicts a bearded Longfellow seated, holding a scroll. The other notable statue is in Washington, D.C., sculpted by William Couper and dedicated in 1909, showing Longfellow seated in academic robes with an open book. The Portland statue is unique for being in his hometown and for its charming local tradition of occasionally holding a wrapped present during the holidays.

The statue itself is a monument in a public square, so a direct visit might only take 5-15 minutes for viewing and photos. However, its location in Portland's Arts District means you can easily spend much longer exploring nearby cafes, galleries, and other attractions, making it part of a broader urban adventure.

Parking near the statue can be found in nearby public garages or through street parking. Availability for street parking can vary significantly depending on the time of day and week, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's often advisable to look for garage parking for longer visits or during busy times.

Yes, the statue's central location in downtown Portland makes it well-served by public transportation. Several local bus routes have stops within a short walking distance of Longfellow Square, providing convenient access for visitors.

Absolutely! The statue is located in a walkable area of Portland's Arts District. Nearby, you'll find One Longfellow Square, a non-profit performing arts venue that often hosts family-friendly events. The surrounding streets are also home to various shops, eateries, and galleries that can be explored with children. It's a great spot to begin a family stroll through the city.

Yes, the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Statue is located in a public square with paved sidewalks, making it wheelchair accessible. The monument itself is at ground level within the square, allowing everyone to approach and view it comfortably.

As the statue is in a public square, dogs are generally welcome on leashes. It's a popular spot for a leisurely walk with your canine companion. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the area enjoyable for all visitors.

Portland winters can be quite cold, so dressing in warm layers is essential. We recommend a heavy winter coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots, especially if there's snow or ice. The square is exposed, so protection from wind is also a good idea.

The Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Monument in Portland was commissioned to honor the city's native son. Funds for its creation were notably gathered by the Longfellow Statue Association, which included pennies, nickels, and dimes collected from children across New England. These children's names are even sealed within the pedestal's base. The sculpture itself cost $17,000 and was created by Portland-born sculptor Franklin Simmons in his Rome studio, dedicated in 1888.

Yes, simply visiting and admiring the statue itself is free. You can also enjoy a free stroll through Longfellow Square and the surrounding Arts District, taking in the architecture, public art, and vibrant atmosphere. Window shopping and people-watching are also popular free activities in the area.

Many local walking tours of Portland's historic downtown and Arts District often include the Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Statue as a significant stop. These tours typically delve into the history of the monument, Longfellow's life, and the cultural significance of the surrounding area. Check with local tourism offices or online for available tour operators.