merchants, who purchased the right to have their flags stored in the building and hoisted up its flagstaffs when their ships were sighted. A telephone was eventually installed, extending the tower's function until 1923, when the reliability of engine powered vessels and communication by radio made it obsolete. In 1937 the tower was turned over to the city. Between the time of its closure and the 1990s, the building was often unlocked and popular among area children. Some older area residents have fond memories of playing in the building and the initials some of them carved into the wood are still visible. The latest major restoration left as much of the original wood as possible in place. This is distinguished by its dark stain while the replacement wood was left its original lighter color. Current operation Greater Portland Landmarks, a non-profit organization, maintains the building. Guided tours with discussion about the history of the building and the neighborhood are provided by volunteer docents from Memorial Day to Columbus Day for a small fee. On very clear days the view from the cupola's balcony extends from the seaward horizon as far inland as Mount Washington. See also List of towers List of National Historic Landmarks in Maine National Register of Historic Places listings in Portland, Maine References External links Portland Observatory -- Greater Portland Landmarks Towers completed in 1807 National Historic Landmarks in Maine Buildings and structures in Portland, Maine Observation towers on the National Register of Historic Places Octagonal buildings in the United States Historic Civil Engineering Landmarks Tourist attractions in Portland, Maine Munjoy Hill Historic American Buildings Survey in Maine Buildings and structures on the National Register of Historic Places in Maine Works Progress Administration in Maine Museums in Portland, Maine National Register of Historic Places in Portland, Maine