Retired trappers from the fur-trading post of Fort Vancouver were the first settlers of Portland in 1829. Standing at the confluence of two major rivers, the city soon became an important shipping center in the Northwest. The growth of the city gained momentum after the shipbuilding industry boomed with World War II. Portland obtained its name when one party of the settlers tossed a coin. It is a great city with the feel of a small town and amenities of an urban town. At the same time it lacks big-city problems as traffic congestion, pollution, and litter. Set amidst the natural beauty of northwest Oregon and laced with parks and gardens, Portland is aptly known as the “City of Roses”.  
Portland lies on the southeast coast of Maine about 106 miles northeast of Boston. The city is divided into east and west by the Willamette River.. Downtown Portland rests on an elevated peninsula with views of the Atlantic Ocean and the White Mountains. Northwest and Downtown are connected by the Portland Streetcar while Tri-Met’s MAX light-rail system links the city center with Southeast Portland and the airport.
Summers and falls are pleasant while winters are cold with frequent thaws. The White Mountains to the northwest keep heavy snow from reaching the Portland area and also moderate the temperature.

Area: 21.2 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 34 feet above sea level

Latitude: 45.52 N

Longitude: 122.64 W

Average Temperatures: January, 22.1° F; August, 66.6° F; annual average, 45.5° F

Average Annual Precipitation: 44.3 inches rain; 71.3 inches snow

Population: 533,427 as on 2005

Attractions

• Old Port Exchange
• Wadsworth-Longfellow House
• Neal Dow Memorial
• Portland Observatory
• Casco Bay's Calendar Islands

Festivals

• Portland Flower Show
• Paddle Sports Festival
• Greek Heritage Festival
• L. L. Bean Paddle Sports Festival
• Portland Festival of Nations
• MS Regatta Harborfest