At long last, summer is finally here! This summer, America’s semi-quincentennial, or 250th birthday, is a good time to explore a little bit of U.S. history close to home. Maine’s historic forts played important roles during colonial conflicts and throughout World War II. A visit to any of Maine’s forts combines the opportunity to view our scenic rivers and coasts with a walk through history.

Starting at the southern tip of Maine on the Piscataqua River near Kittery is Fort McCleary. There has been a fort on this point of land for over 275 years. The current buildings reflect the changes in military architecture and technology over the last 200 years. This site was manned during five wars, from the Revolutionary War until World War I. 

Farther along the coast toward the Kennebec River are Fort Popham and Old Fort Western. Fort Popham was built in the 1860’s near Phippsburg. Old Fort Western in Augusta is one of the oldest intact forts in Maine and is a National Historic Landmark. The original 1754 garrison building is the oldest wooden French and Indian War era garrison in North America. Both forts served to protect the people and ship-building industry along the Kennebec. 

Fort Knox, near Prospect on the Penobscot River, is one of the best-preserved military fortifications in New England. Visitors can explore the fort buildings and stand on top of the thick stone walls to view the Penobscot Narrows just below. The British invaded this lumber-rich area during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Fort Knox was established in 1844 to guard the Penobscot River valley against possible future British incursions. Although soldiers were garrisoned at Fort Knox from 1863-1869, the fort never came under attack. 

The first naval battle of the Revolutionary War took place just offshore of Machiasport. In response, Fort O’Brien was built in 1775 to guard the mouth of the Machias River. The fort was destroyed by the British twice, rebuilt twice and saw duty during the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. The earthworks and cannons remain for visitors to explore.  

I could not possibly list all the historic forts and places to visit in Maine. The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands website at https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/ can help to locate interesting historical sites where modern-day Mainers can walk in the footsteps of history.

As always, check out the AARP Maine website to find an AARP summer event near you. 

Joyce Bucciantini is a retired middle school educator. She currently coordinates Delta Kappa Gamma’s Read to Me program, is a tutor with Literacy Volunteers-Androscoggin, and is an active AARP Maine volunteer. She enjoys her gardens, being outdoors and traveling.aarp.org/me · me@aarp.org · @aarpmaine · 866-554-5380