The Asylum (And That Famous Graffiti Wall) In Portland Have Officially Been Demolished

We all knew it was coming. Whispers turned into statements and statements turned into reality this week as the Asylum began its multi-million dollar expansion with some serious demolition. Photos of the rubble have begun to circulate on social media with people having some bittersweet feelings.

According to the Portland Press Herald, the new name of the Asylum will be Free Street Live. The expansion will allow Free Street Live to host bigger touring artists, with an improved concert experience for consumers. A 2nd floor balcony will be added to the concert section, along with improved dressing rooms and pre-function space. The expansion will also allow Free Street Live to host weddings and other functions with the increased capacity and updated facilities.

That all sounds great, but for many, the Asylum's cozy confines represent hundreds of amazing memories. From a person's first concert experience, to free local comedy shows, to the Asylum's well-known goth nights in the basement, the Asylum became a huge part of the community's weekly nightlife. Oh, and then there's that graffiti wall.

There's no wall in the state of Maine that has been photographed more than the "Greetings From Portland" graffiti wall on the back side of the Asylum. For many, seeing it being demolished feels wrong. Free Street Live has promised that when their expansion is finished, there will be a new place for another graffiti wall to decorate the city and allow artists to express themselves. For now, check out the photos and hold back the tears.