Deering Farmhouse - University of Southern Maine, Portland
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.
The Deering Farmhouse (c.1807) is the last remaining structure of the more than 200-acre James Deering Estate (1803) and is believed to be the last Federal period farmhouse within the City of Portland. James Deering, known as the “merchant prince of Portland,” was one of the original founders of the Atlantic & St. Lawrence Railroad. Six acres of his estate were purchased by Portland Junior College in 1947; unfortunately, the Deering mansion and barn were demolished. Upon the college’s merger with University of Southern Maine, the house became the Alumni Office. While the building is in good condition, it was last extensively renovated in the 1970s and is currently vacant. The University's 2019 campus master plan proposes to use the site as the location for a new graduate school and would require relocation or demolition of the farmhouse. The building was recently determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, but has no current local protection from demolition or alterations.
Our Position
The key location of the Deering Farmhouse on the campus represents an opportunity for continued use for education or administration purposes. Now that the building has been determined eligible for the National Register, historic rehabilitation tax credits can be used for upgrades. Landmarks looks forward to working with the University of Southern Maine to explore practical options for rehabilitation and reuse.
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.