Join the Clerestory Circle

With a committed gift of $1,200 or more annually, Founding Clerestory Circle members recognize the importance of supporting one of Portland, Maine's most treasured cultural institutions: Mechanics' Hall. For nearly 200 years our magnificent landmark building has stood at the center of the Arts District, yet for many it has been hiding in plain sight.

With your help and support, we're changing that.

For years, a lack of public access and programs meant very few stepped inside. Today our doors and community are wide open. Inside Mechanics’ Hall, you'll find the 8th oldest member-supported library in the United States, bookshelves lined with best-sellers and great literature, and a stunning light-filled space to read, work or write. And no, you don't need to be a member to visit! Famed Maine architect John Calvin Stevens designed our grand ballroom where we now present contemporary music, dance, and performance. And our classroom, which served as a drawing school for nearly 100 years, now functions as a gallery and lecture space.

Along with ongoing restoration of our historic building, Mechanics' Hall is committed to our original mission, adopted in 1815: To serve our creative community with artistic programs, literature, elevating discourse with thoughtful public programs and "the diffusion of useful knowledge."

Your support is critical to our efforts. Help us pave a bold and successful path toward our future with a gift today.

Clerestory Circle benefits and recognition:

Founding supporters of The Clerestory Circle will be recognized inside our historic building, on our website and in social media. Additionally they will receive:

• Reserved seating (by name) at most programs
• Free or discounted tickets to most programs
• Invitation to an annual Clerestory event and other special programs throughout the year
• The opportunity to schedule a private tour of Mechanics’ Hall with friends, including access to the Clerestory.

"The Mechanics of Portland as a class, have at length erected a temple— a place consecrated to science and social enjoyment; a central, substantial, and commodious and elegant home. We trust that from this temple shall go forth an influence at once energizing, elevating, perpetual and universal, within its allotted sphere."

From The Advertiser, a Portland newspaper that covered the dedication of Mechanics' Hall, February 23, 1859