At Black Travel Maine (BTM), our Black History Walking Tours are far more than sightseeing experiences — they are powerful journeys through untold stories, living legacies, and transformative moments that shaped Maine and the nation.
Led by direct descendants, historians, educators, and cultural leaders, our tours uncover the deep, rich, and often overlooked Black history of Maine, from the days of the Underground Railroad to civil rights leadership, political milestones, and cultural innovation.
Maine’s Black history is profound, powerful, and largely unknown — even to lifelong Mainers. Through immersive storytelling, firsthand family narratives, and expert historical context, our tours redefine how people experience Maine.
Living History. Trusted Voices. Deep Roots.
Bob Greene is a highly respected Maine historian, former Associated Press journalist, and longtime professor who has spent decades researching, teaching, and preserving Black history throughout the state of Maine. His deep knowledge and journalistic rigor bring historical moments to life.
Merita McKenzie is a direct descendant of Portland’s civil rights legacy. Her mother, June McKenzie, was a founding leader of the Portland NAACP. Merita carries forward her mother’s legacy, sharing powerful firsthand stories of activism, resilience, and leadership.
Our tours explore the lives, leadership, and impact of Maine’s most influential Black changemakers:
Most powerfully — these are not distant historical figures.
Their descendants and family members are our tour guides.
This is living history.
Thanks to the support of the Permanent Commission on the Status of Racial Equity, we offer a series of free tours throughout the year, providing open access to Maine’s Black history.
📅 Check our Events Calendar or Linktree for the latest schedule.
Planning for your school, organization, or group of eight or more? We create custom tours tailored to your interests. Perfect for educational programs and cultural organizations.
Real Stories. Real Impact. Real Transformation.
These tours create meaningful cultural tourism experiences that foster understanding, spark dialogue, and generate real economic impact for local communities. Join us and be part of the story.
Contact Lisa@BlackTravelMaine.comHave questions? We'd love to hear from you.