Original sketch of Maine General Hospital by architect Francis Fassett. Initial plans were for four wings or pavilions, leading out from a central building. The siting atop Bramhall Hill allowed for free circulation of fresh air, deemed essential for minimizing the spread of disease, and granted views of the White Mountains and the ocean.

The final construction, still visible today, resulted in the central building but only two pavilions. Due to financial necessity, the structure was built in phases, ending in 1892 with completion of the west wing and superintendent's house. The hospital began accepting patients in 1874 with only the east pavilion open.

Maine General Hospital is the predecessor of Maine Medical Center.