Portland Head has long protected Portland and the adjacent area. Location of this aid to navigation was proposed in 1787 and was first lighted in 1791. The original structure was modified and heightened in 1865 and a second order Fresnel lens installed. This lens was employed through 1958. A two story duplex was constructed for the lightkeeper and family in 1891 and served that purpose until 1989 when the light was automated. The property was deeded to the Town of Cape Elizabeth (Maine) 1993 and is now open to the public as a museum. I preferred to show the lighthouse itself from a rear elevation because this light and the surrounding buildings are probably the most photographed of its type in New England & I wished to present a different view. 1/400th second at f/7; 700mm focal length at ISO 100; camera on tripod.