Universally regarded as the most beautiful Irish Center in America, the former St Dominic's Church in Portland, Maine is about to become even more beautiful courtesy of a federal grant for long-overdue restoration works.
Behind the imposing green doors and stunning stained-glass windows of a chapel built by Irish immigrants, the Irish Heritage Center of Maine has long been a beacon for "the exiled children of Ireland" in the Pine Tree State.
But this summer work begins on renovations at the 192-year-old church which will secure its future as a hub of Irish activity and learning.
Deconsecrated in 1997, the church was purchased from the city just $1 by the Maine Irish Heritage Center which launched a series of year-round activities to bring the Irish American community together - and span the narrowest gap between America and Ireland.
$3m in federal funding was granted to the Center for restoration works in 2023 after a bipartisan push by local politicians. And now, having negotiated myriad approval processes, the renovation of the church is set to begin this summer.
“This funding has the power to save our building for another 100 years," said Maine Irish Heritage Center Executive Director Eric Brown. "It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve one of Maine’s most important Irish landmarks. Thanks to the support of Senators King and Collins and Representative Pingree, we’re moving forward with a bold plan to protect and revitalize a historic cornerstone of our community.”
He added: "We’re not just restoring a building—we’re safeguarding a legacy. This center is a place where Maine’s Irish heritage continues to grow and thrive.”
That's a view echoed by James McClay, Center Board Chairman.
“Every stone and slate of this building tells a story," he told the Echo. "With this restoration, we’re making sure those stories aren’t lost to time. The Center is a symbol of resilience. We’ve been shaped by storms, rebuilt by our community, and we’re ready for a new chapter.”
He added: “We’re going into 2025 with enthusiasm. Big things are happening at the Maine Irish Heritage Center.”
About one in six Mainers can trace their roots back to Ireland and boasts many famous Irish American figures including most notably peacemaker Senator George Mitchell who chaired the Good Friday Agreement negotiations. Also highly regarded in Maine political and Irish circles was the late Maine House of Representatives Member and Heritage Center treasurer Lois Galgay Reckitt (below).
