John Paul Jones State Historic Site

🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Father of the American Navy — Birthplace of John Paul Jones — “I have not yet begun to fight!” — the most famous line in US naval history

John Paul Jones State Historic Site in Kittery Point marks the location associated with John Paul Jones (1747–1792), the “Father of the American Navy.” During the Revolutionary War, Jones commanded the Bonhomme Richard against the British warship HMS Serapis in 1779. When the British captain asked if Jones was ready to surrender, he replied: “I have not yet begun to fight!” — the most famous line in US naval history. Jones won the battle. Kittery is also home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (actually in Maine, not New Hampshire!), which has built warships since 1800.

Visitor Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Maine?

Yes! Despite its name, the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is actually on Seavey’s Island in Kittery, Maine. The 1905 Treaty of Portsmouth (ending the Russo-Japanese War, negotiated by Theodore Roosevelt) was signed nearby, earning Roosevelt the Nobel Peace Prize.

About John Paul Jones

John Paul Jones State Historic Site in Kittery preserves the site where the Continental Navy’s first ship — the Ranger — was launched in 1777. Captain John Paul Jones, the “Father of the American Navy,” commanded the Ranger to France where it received the first foreign salute to the American flag. The site overlooks the Piscataqua River and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

Things to Do

Visiting the memorial and interpretive panels honoring America’s naval heritage, viewing the Piscataqua River where the Ranger was launched, and learning about the founding of the U.S. Navy. The nearby Kittery outlets and Portsmouth, NH are minutes away.