Following the Great Fire of Portland in 1866, the Custom House on Middle Street sustained significant damage and was eventually demolished. To replace it, plans were quickly drafted for a new building on the same site, designed to accommodate both the Post Office and the Federal Courthouse, just as its predecessor had.
Construction began in 1868, and this new structure stood out among Federal buildings of the era due to its Greek Revival architectural style and the use of marble rather than the more common granite. In 1905, the courthouse functions were relocated, and after the Post Office on Forest Avenue opened in 1934, the building was used exclusively for federal offices.
By the mid-1960s, the government determined that the space would be better utilized as a parking area for Federal employees working in nearby offices. Greater Portland Landmarks, founded in 1964, worked with Senator Muskie’s office to halt the demolition, securing a six-month delay. However, despite their efforts, they were unable to raise the necessary funds to preserve the building, and it was ultimately torn down in 1965. Today, the site is known as Post Office Park, a community space in the heart of the Old Port.
