Fishermen's Memorial, Gloucester, Mass.

Why a monument?

Many major American ports have erected monuments commemorating their commercial fishing industry. These areas are successful attractions, places to reflect, and must-see photo locations that draw tourists and local citizens alike. In Gloucester, Mass., a park surrounds a dramatic statue located at the most prominent area of the port. In Baltimore, Md., a monument is the centerpiece of the Harbor Restoration Project. In a majority of fishing ports, the site for monuments is central to the harbor or restoration development. This provides a way to honor this industry and make the monument an integral part of the port. It is, therefore, the intent of the Fishermen's Monument Commission to honor the unique commercial fishing heritage of Maine's past, present and future by establishing a world-class monument in Portland that will become part of the Portland waterfront for generations to come.