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The residence of local foundry owner George Raymond, on Main Street at Spring Street, is shown at left as it appeared around 1880.

Local merchant Lewis W. Edwards, a brother-in-law of George Raymond, built a large house next door, which diminished the attractiveness of Raymond’s house. Not to be outdone, Raymond moved his small residence down the street and built a larger house on the site, next to his brother-in-law, second from left. In 1954, First Portland National Bank purchased the Raymond house from Mary Hopkinson, who had resided there 53 years. The bank also purchased the Edwards house from the estate of local printer H.S. Cobb, who had died the year before. Both houses were demolished and a bank was built on the site. In later years, the city purchased the building for use as a City Hall. When City Hall moved to York Street, the building was sold to Maine Bank & Trust Co., the current occupant, third from left. The original Raymond House is still standing at 712 Main St., right.

Research and photos courtesy of Mike Sanphy