Mechanics’ Hall plays an integral part of fulfilling MCMA’s mission by providing a physical space to share our knowledge, create sparks with other hopeful minds, and support other organizations with similar charitable goals. Join us for chance conversations in our library lounge or directed discussions after expert lectures. Together “we shall be just, and fear not.”
Mechanics’ Hall
Location:
519 Congress St.
Portland, ME 04101
Library hours:
10:00-3:00 Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Rent our space
Our ballroom, classroom, boardroom and gallery are all available for rentals. Fill out our rental inquiry to reserve your space!
The History of Mechanics Hall
For over two centuries MCMA has supported mechanical and fine art drawing schools, dance, music art studios, scholarships and lectures by leading intellectuals.
“The Mechanics of Portland have at length erected a temple – a place consecrated to science and social enjoyment; a central, substantial, commodious and elegant home. We trust that from this temple shall go forth and influence at once energizing, elevating, perpetual and universal.”
– from the Advertiser in 1859 cited in the 1965 Constitution
Tour Mechanics Hall
Boardroom
Located in our historic building, our boardroom is equipped with a 15 person capacity table, conference phone and internet. Contact us for rental rates and our schedule.
Ballroom
Designed by John Calvin Stevens, our ballroom has capacity for 160 people and has equipment for presentations, performances and celebratory events.
Library
As one of the oldest libraries in the State of Maine, the MCMA library houses over 30,000 resources in a historic setting.
Classroom
MCMA’s classroom can house 50 people and functioning as a both a gallery space and an educational facility equipped with chairs, tables and vertical displays, as appropriate for the use.
Art Exhibits
At Mechanics’ Hall we host ongoing art exhibits. Details on the current exhibit are available online and through our mailing list. To use our library, classroom or stairway gallery spaces please contact hall@mainemechanics.org.
5th Floor
Although it was used to feed soldiers during the civil war and remains a historic open space, the top floor of MCMA is currently unavailable for use by the public due to a lack of a secondary mode of egress. If you are interested in opening this space please consider getting involved by emailing hall@mainemechanics.org.
