Today we’re taking you on a virtual visit to four historic forts in Maine. Some played key roles in defending Maine, others not so much. Some all that remain are the earthworks and crumbling structures, while others have buildings to explore. All locations are closed for the season, but if you click on the highlighted name you can view more photos, and one fort you can even take a virtual stroll inside!
Fort Edgecomb: Fort Edgecomb in Edgecomb, Maine is an octagonal fort built between 1808 and 1809 as a defense for the important shipbuilding port of Wiscasset and to enforce Thomas Jefferson’s Embargo Act of 1807. During the War of 1812, this fort saw considerable activity, including holding British prisoners of war, who were brought to Wiscasset harbor by American privateers. In 1814, Fort Edgecomb became an important base in defending against a possible British attack on midcoast Maine. It was used until 1818, and was later reactivated during the Civil War, before finally being permanently closed at the conclusion of that war.
Fort George: Fort George in Castine, Maine, was built by the British during the American Revolution in 1779 to establish a naval base between Halifax and New York, as well as an attempt to form a new colony called “New Ireland.” The fort itself was named in honor of King George III, but was also known as Fort Castine and Fort Penobscot. During the Penobscot Expedition, the Massachusetts militia failed miserably in an attempt to regain control of the area. In fact, the Penobscot Expedition went so poorly that at the time Paul Revere’s reputation was permanently damaged due to his role as commander of the artillery regiment during this failed attack. Following the siege, this British stronghold remained a safe haven for Loyalists who flocked there from the surrounding area. The fort was ceded back to America when the Treaty of Paris was ratified in 1784, at which point the British burned the fort and left. After being rebuilt, the British briefly regained control of Fort George during the War of 1812, but abandoned it in 1815.
Fort Pownall: Located at Fort Point State Park in Stockton Springs, Maine, Fort Pownall was constructed in 1759 to protect the English landholdings during the French and Indian War. The fort, shaped like a four point star, was surrounded by a palisade, ditch, and large earthen bank. However, soon after the fort was built, the French fell to the English during the Battle of Quebec. Therefore, Fort Pownall never did get to fulfill its military mission. On the eve of the American Revolution, in 1775 the British seized the fort’s guns to keep them out of the rebels’ hands. In retaliation, the colonists burned the blockhouse and filled the moat preventing British occupation during the war. Later in 1836 a lighthouse was erected at this point, and was the first river lighthouse in Maine. The current Fort Point Light was built in 1857.
Fort Knox: Fort Knox, in Prospect, Maine, was established in 1844 to protect the Penobscot River Valley against possible future British naval invasions. However, although troops were stationed there during the Civil War and later during the Spanish American War, it never saw battle. Constructed between 1844 and 1864 Fort Knox is Maine’s first fort entirely built of granite. Yet it was never completed. Today it is one of the best-preserved military fortifications on the New England seacoast, with its unique architectural features. Thanks to the Maine State Archives Bicentennial Projects you can now take a virtual tour of these interesting features both inside and out, while in the comfort of your own home.
