🏆🏆🏆🏆 King William’s War — 1690s garrison site from the deadliest conflict on the Maine frontier — King William’s War
Storer Garrison State Historic Site in Wells preserves the location of a fortified garrison house destroyed during an Abenaki raid in 1692 — one of the bloodiest events of King William’s War (1689–1697). The Maine frontier was devastated during this conflict, with entire towns abandoned as Abenaki warriors, allied with the French, raided English settlements. Wells was attacked multiple times — the 1692 Storer Garrison massacre killed or captured dozens of settlers. The site is a somber reminder of the brutal frontier wars that defined early Maine.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Wells, York County, ME |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Event | 1692 Abenaki raid — King William’s War! |
| Period | 1689–1697 — frontier warfare! |
About Storer Garrison
Storer Garrison State Historic Site in Wells preserves the site of a fortified garrison house that was attacked during King William’s War (1692) — part of the devastating French and Indian Wars that terrorized New England’s frontier communities. The garrison sheltered settlers during raids from the north, and the site interprets this brutal period of colonial Maine history.
Things to Do
Visiting the historical marker and interpretive panels, learning about the French and Indian Wars on the Maine frontier, and reflecting on colonial-era conflicts. The nearby Wells Reserve at Laudholm offers nature trails and coastal ecology programs.
Insider Tips
King William’s War: Storer Garrison was attacked during King William’s War (1688-1697) — part of a series of devastating raids on Maine frontier settlements. Pro tip: Maine’s colonial history was shaped by constant warfare between English settlers and the Wabanaki Confederacy (allied with France). Forgotten wars: The French and Indian Wars in Maine lasted 75+ years — longer than any other colonial conflict.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Interpretive programs. Fall: Comfortable touring. Year-round: Memorial accessible. Spring: Wells area blooming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Maine’s colonial history so violent?
Maine sat on the border between English and French colonial empires — the Wabanaki Confederacy allied with France against English expansion. From 1675 to 1760, Maine experienced nearly continuous warfare — raids destroyed settlements repeatedly. Some communities were abandoned multiple times. The violence was reciprocal — English attacks on Native villages were equally devastating. Peace didn’t come until the British conquered New France in 1760.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park (a short drive away) or Vaughn Woods State Park (a short drive away).
🏰 Visit Storer Garrison SHS
1692 — King William’s War, Maine frontier’s bloodiest chapter.
Wildlife & Nature
Storer Garrison SHS — marks the site of a fortified garrison house that was attacked during the Wabanaki Wars (late 1600s-early 1700s). The site’s Wells coast, marshland, and forest support shorebirds, ospreys, and songbirds.
Nearby Attractions
Wells — adjacent — popular beach resort town. Rachel Carson NWR — nearby. Ogunquit — 5 miles south.
