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| Last updated on April 24, 2008 |
The incredible Eastern Cemetery, officially founded almost 340 years ago, offers a deep connection to our shared past. Our goals are Advocacy (for the site and for getting public access to the site), Education (specialized tours and more offerings), and Conservation, via a Master Plan for this site in an effort to slow its deterioration, improve access, and more.
Description:
Advocacy for this historic, cultural and sacred site in terms of its maintenance, public access, and a Master Plan for conservation: Education intended to illuminate our rich, shared past- this site is Portland's oldest public burial ground and the area's oldest historic landscape. Almost 340 years old, it holds over 4000 citizens within its 6 acres. It is our hope to offer more educational tours, and, keep the property opened to the public; Conservation- our goal is to have a funded Master Plan so that thoughtful, prioritized conservation work can commence.
History:
In May, 2006 we hosted a work-day at the site, with landscape architect, Barry Hosmer. Barry created a landscape plan for the site which was approved by the City's Historic Preservation Board.
This work day attracted Master Gardeners, history buffs, neighbors and other area citizens- eager to learn, contribute to the site and more. With such an enthusiastic response, we hosted 4 more work days last year, in total planting over 40 trees, removing invasive vines and shrubs, and hand-trimming around the most ancient and damaged stones. We wrapped up last season by giving a tour as part of Portland Trails "Urban Treks", and had 56 people for the 1.5 hour tour.
This year we planted another 38 trees, installed two granite benchees, are hosting a summer-long event for artists, "Beyond the Gates-Art Inspired by the Eastern Cemtery", and are planning to paint, reroof, and rebuild the steps with the Victorian Shed. We mounted three new tours which will take place 20 times during the summer and autumn.
Additionally, it is our hope to mount a "Walk Among the Shadows" autumnal tour. All is this in an effort to attract and educate citizens about this site, have some fun, and, fund the Master Plan.
Contact person: Christina White, Cheerleader, (phone), (email)
Address:
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Corner of Congress/Mountfort/Federal Streets
Portland, ME 04101
(See a map) |
Web Site: http://www.spiritsalive.org
Directions:
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The historic Eastern Cemetery is located at the foot of Munjoy Hill on Congress, Mountfort, and Federal Streets.
295, take the Franklin Arterial Exit. Proceed up Arterial to lighted intersection of Congress, and take a LEFT onto Congress. Eastern Cemetery is. . . (more) |
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