Fort Point State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Point State Park |
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 Fort Point State Park
Location in Maine
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| Location | Stockton Springs, Waldo, Maine, United States |
| Area | 156 acres (63 ha) |
| Elevation | 33 ft (10 m) |
| Established | 1974 |
| Operator | Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry |
| Website | Fort Point State Park |
Fort Point State Park is a fun outdoor area in Stockton Springs, Maine. It sits on the eastern tip of Cape Jellison, offering amazing views of Penobscot Bay. This park is about 156 acres big. It's home to the historic Fort Point Light (a lighthouse) and the old site of Fort Pownall. You can enjoy hiking trails, have a picnic, or go fishing here.
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History of Fort Point State Park
Building Fort Pownall
The story of Fort Point State Park began in 1759. At that time, English colonists came to this area. The Governor of Massachusetts, Thomas Pownall, brought 400 men to build a fort. This fort was called Fort Pownall. It was built during the French and Indian War. The fort's main job was to protect English interests in the Penobscot River area. Even though it was built for war, the fort never saw any fighting during that conflict.
Fort Pownall During the Revolution
Years later, in 1775, the American Revolutionary War began. British soldiers took the fort's cannons. To stop the fort from falling into British hands, American colonists decided to destroy it themselves. They tore down the main building, called a blockhouse. They also filled in the moat, which was a ditch around the fort. This made sure the British couldn't use it.
From Hotel to Park
After the wars, in 1872, a very large hotel was built on the site. It had 200 rooms and was meant for rich visitors. Most guests would arrive by steamboat. However, the hotel was not very successful. It sadly burned down in 1898. The land remained empty for many years. Finally, in 1974, the area was opened as a state park. This means it became a public place for everyone to enjoy.
