Fire Destroys Building at Historic Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine
PORTLAND, Maine — Fire crews battled a fierce blaze Friday evening at the historic Custom House Wharf in Portland, a site deeply tied to the city’s maritime heritage. The fire, which erupted shortly after 5 p.m., destroyed one building and damaged boats docked along the wharf before being brought under control by 7:22 p.m., according to local authorities.
The Custom House Wharf, part of Portland’s Old Port district, was once a bustling hub for the commercial fishing industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it remains a vibrant area where working fishermen keep their boats alongside a popular tourist destination filled with restaurants and shops. The fire’s impact rippled through this community, threatening both its historic fabric and ongoing maritime activity.
Deputy Fire Chief Jon Hendricks described the scene upon arrival, noting that “the fire had a pretty good head start on us,” but praised the rapid and aggressive response by the first firefighters who worked to prevent the flames from spreading further down the wharf. Despite their efforts, one building was lost, and several boats suffered damage, with one vessel sinking amid the chaos.
Two firefighters sustained minor injuries but were not hospitalized. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire.
The Porthole Restaurant and Pub, a well-known establishment on the wharf, confirmed it survived the blaze and remained open during regular hours the following day. In a statement, the restaurant expressed solidarity with those affected and gratitude toward the first responders.
Maine Governor Janet Mills monitored the situation closely and urged the public to avoid the area, emphasizing the importance of heeding local fire and public safety officials’ directions. Her administration’s prompt response underscores the fire’s significance to the community and the state’s commitment to recovery efforts.
Portland’s waterfront has long been a symbol of Maine’s maritime economy and culture. The Old Port district, with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making the preservation of sites like Custom House Wharf a priority for both residents and visitors.
Fire safety and emergency response in coastal communities such as Portland are critical, given the proximity of wooden structures and the presence of fuel and vessels. The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by fire departments in protecting heritage sites while safeguarding lives and property.
For more information on fire safety and emergency management, resources are available through the U.S. Fire Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Updates on local emergency conditions can be found via the Maine Department of Public Safety. The National Park Service also provides insight into preservation efforts for historic sites like Portland’s Old Port district at nps.gov.
As Portland begins the recovery process, the community’s resilience and the swift actions of firefighters and emergency personnel stand as a testament to the city’s enduring spirit and dedication to preserving its storied waterfront.
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