Bramhall Hill is a hill in the west and southwest of the downtown peninsula of Portland, Maine. At its summit, the hill stands feet above sea level, with a sharp drop below. The area includes the West End neighborhood, the Western Promenade and part of the Old Port downtown district.
Bramhall Hill commands an extensive view west and north-west of the bay, the mainland and the White Mountains, around 80miles away. The finest residence district is on Bramhall Hill. The area was originally the property of George Bramhall,[1] who built the Bramhall mansion.
George Bramhall moved to Portland in 1680 and bought a plot of of land from George Cleeves. Bramhall was killed during the French and Indian Wars in the late 17th century. He was a tanner by profession and set up a tannery in the area.[2]
In 1870, a 20-inch main brought water from Sebago Lake to a 12e6USgal reservoir on Bramhall Hill. This supplied most of the city's drinking water.[3]
The first capital conviction in the United States Courts after the adoption of the Constitution occurred on Bramhall Hill in 1790. Thomas Bird was convicted of piracy and murder. After a prompt refusal for pardon by President George Washington, Bird was executed.[4] [5]