Hilltop School in Bangor explores historic roots

The Hilltop School in Bangor, Maine, is a historic building known for its Gothic architecture and complex history. Originally established following an 1835 sewing circle meeting intended to aid women, the organization eventually shifted its focus to helping destitute girls by founding the Bangor Female Orphan Asylum.

The current building was constructed in 1869 with funding from a bequest by Franklin Pitcher. Following Pitcher's request, the facility's mission was expanded to include boys, leading to its rechartering as the Bangor Children's Home in 1866. The site's land was supported by donations from James Smith, Jr. and Samuel Prentiss.

The institution operated as an orphanage for over a century, serving children who often had few other options to avoid homelessness or shelters. The facility's function underwent significant changes in the 1970s.