History of South Portland, Maine, USA

1906
South Portland, a city of Cumberland co., Me., on Casco Bay, opposite Portland, with which it is connected by ferry and several bridges. It has government fortifications, a soldiers' monument, a state reform school for boys, and manufactures of iron and steel, marine equipment, etc. Pop. in 1900, 6287.
Lippincott's New Gazetteer: A Complete Pronouncing Gazetteer Or Geographical Dictionary of the World, Containing the Most Recent and Authentic Information Respecting the Countries, Cities, Towns ... in Every Portion of the Globe Publisher J.B. Lippincott Company, 1906

1944 - MANY DIE AS PLANE CRASHES INTO CAMP.
South Portland, Me., July 11 - (AP) - A medium Army bomber crashed and exploded in a 100-unit government trailer colony late today, spewing flaming oil and gasoline over the hoes of war workers, killing 12 and injuring scores.

The tragedy was the worst airplane accident in Maine's history.
The dead were four children and eight adults. Two of the latter were Army men.

The identified dead:
EDWARD A. GERRISH, 32, of Orono, a shipyard worker.
GEORGE ROBERTSON, JR., 9 months, whose parents and sister, MARIE, were among the injured.

The ROBERTSON child died in the Maine General hospital in Portland, where 20 other persons were treated for severe burns. The others died instantly.

With the exception of the two Army men those who died instantly were trapped in their lightly-built semi-permanent trailer homes.

Identification of the dead proceeded at funeral homes in Portland and South Portland while police and firemen probed wreckage of trailers for other possible... Read MORE...

1949 - Carr Hurt When Auto Hits Bridge
South Portland, May 29 - John T. L. Carr, 440 Sawyer Street, suffered facial lacerations when his car struck the Mill Creek Bridge this morning. Hospital attaches said he apparently "blacked out" while crossing the bridge. He was taken to Maine General Hospital and was placed under observation there. His condition was reported "good."
Portland Press Herald
Portland, Maine
May 30, 1949

Here's a list of some of the best places to go and activities to enjoy in South Portland:
Willard Beach: Start your visit with some relaxation at Willard Beach. This small, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. It's also an excellent spot for a leisurely walk along the shoreline.

Bug Light Park: Adjacent to Willard Beach, Bug Light Park is home to the iconic Portland Breakwater Lighthouse, also known as Bug Light. This historic structure offers great photo opportunities and a peaceful park for picnicking.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse: Another must-visit lighthouse in South Portland is Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. It's located at the end of a massive granite breakwater, making it a unique and picturesque destination. You can walk out to the lighthouse and enjoy scenic views of Casco Bay.

Portland Harbor Museum: If you're interested in the maritime history of the area, don't miss the Portland Harbor Museum. It's located near Bug Light and offers exhibits on shipbuilding, fishing, and the rich history of the Portland... Read MORE...