The wharves in Portland Harbor have played a significant role in the economic, maritime, and industrial history of Portland. The central waterfront, which functions both as the center of the working waterfront and the tourism industry, runs along Commercial Street from Deake’s Wharf in the west to Maine Wharf in the east. All of the central wharves were built as working piers, with steamers and schooners regularly unloading at the Maine Central wharves. The waterfront was transformed significantly in the 19th century with the introduction of the railroad along the waterfront but was described as crumbling throughout much of the early to mid-20th century. This postcard looks east over the wharves along the Fore River.

The caption reads, "Maine Central Wharves looking east, Portland, Maine."

The Tichnor Brothers printing company published this type of postcard circa 1938.