This photograph published by the Portland Press Herald on December 22nd, 1970, offers a glimpse into the bustling holiday atmosphere of Congress Street during its peak shopping season. In the era before the opening of the Maine Mall in 1971, locals turned to Congress Street as the primary hub for all their gift-shopping needs.
The shopping district was renowned for establishments such as the Markson Brothers store and Porteous, Mitchell, and Braun, which are both featured in the throwback image. Against the backdrop of festive decorations, the entire city embraced the Christmas spirit.
Notably, Monument Square hosted the annual tree in the same location it occupies today.
