Gorham Academy, University of Southern Maine, Gorham
update
August, 2022: Restoration is underway and includes work to stabilize the foundation, repairing rot on the porch and front columns, and ensuring that the building is weathertight. A new roof was completed in June. For a full update on the work taking place, read this article from the Portland Press Herald.
Nominated to Places in Peril in 2019
The Issue
The University of Southern Maine’s Campus Master Plan puts several of the historic buildings on the Portland and Gorham campuses at risk.
Gorham Academy (c. 1806) is one of the first six academies incorporated in what was then the District of Maine by the General Court of Massachusetts. Designed in 1806 by Samuel Elder in the Federal style it quickly became a symbol of pride in the community, and today it is a focal point on the University of Southern Maine Gorham Campus. The character-defining features of the building are still intact, including the classically detailed portico and pediment, four Doric columns supporting a second floor balcony, and fanlight above the central second-floor door. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Although the 213-year-old building houses studios for the Art Department, it is plagued by deferred maintenance. The building is not in a prominent location on campus and is easily overlooked -- as evidenced by an overwhelming addition proposed for the rear of the building in the 2019 University of Southern Maine Campus Master Plan. For more information on the Gorham campus buildings, click here.
Our Position
The Gorham Academy is a significant building in the town of Gorham. As it is currently on the National Register of Historic Places, tax credits could be used to offset the cost of rehabilitation. We are pleased to learn that USM has initiated a planning process looking at the rehabilitation needs of the building and will soon begin repairs! Landmarks looks forward to working with the Gorham community and the University of Southern Maine to ensure this important community landmark lives long into the future.
Press
USM to make more than $750,000 in repairs to Gorham Academy American Journal
Preservation rules guard USM buildings slated for demolition, American Journal
USM launches plan to enhance Portland campus, Portland Press Herald
Older than Maine, Gorham Academy due for facelift American Journal
Quick Links
Trustees approve Master Plan to transform USM Campus, USM
Academy Building (University of Southern Maine), Wikipedia
What You Can Do
Advocate for the preservation of these buildings to the President and Trustees of USM
Join our mailing list to stay informed about our advocacy efforts, educational programs, and upcoming events.
Support Landmarks' advocacy efforts and our Places in Peril program by making a donation or becoming a member today.