Fort Pownall

🏆🏆🏆🏆 Penobscot Bay Fortress — 1759 British fort on the Penobscot River — controlling the vital river-to-sea trade route

Fort Pownall preserves the 1759 British fort site at the mouth of the Penobscot River in Stockton Springs — built to assert British control over the vital Penobscot Bay region during the French and Indian War. The fort commanded the river that was Maine’s primary highway into the interior. Fort Pownall was burned in 1775 by patriots to prevent British use during the Revolution. The site offers beautiful views of Penobscot Bay and the river mouth.

Visitor Information

About Fort Pownall

Fort Pownall in Stockton Springs preserves the remains of a 1759 British fort built during the French and Indian War to control the Penobscot River. Governor Thomas Pownall built the fort at the strategic narrows where the river meets Penobscot Bay. The site offers commanding views of the bay and the forested river valley.

Things to Do

Exploring the fort earthworks and foundation, reading the interpretive panels on colonial history, enjoying views over Penobscot Bay, picnicking, and fishing from shore. The site combines military history with scenic beauty.

About Fort Pownall

Fort Pownall in Waldo County preserves the earthwork remains of a 1759 British fort built during the French and Indian War to protect the Penobscot River boundary between British and French territory. Governor Thomas Pownall personally supervised construction and armed the fort with 18 cannons. The British burned the fort themselves in 1775 to prevent it from falling to American rebels. Earthworks and a commanding view of the river remain.

Things to Do

Walking the surviving earthworks, viewing the Penobscot River from the fort’s commanding position, picnicking, fishing, and learning about the French-British struggle for Maine.