Kent Fort, Maryland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kent Fort |
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|---|---|
| General information | |
| Town or city | Kent Island, Maryland |
| Country |  USA |
| Coordinates | 38°50′N 76°22′W / 38.84°N 76.37°W |
| Completed | 1631 |
Kent Fort was an important early settlement and fort. It was located on Kent Island in what was then colonial Virginia. Later, this area became part of Maryland.
This fort was very special because it was the first English settlement within the area we now call Maryland. It was also one of the very first permanent English settlements in the United States. Only Jamestown, Virginia (1607), Hampton, Virginia (1609–10), and Plymouth, Massachusetts (1620) were older.
William Claiborne started Kent Fort in 1631. It was a key part of life on Kent Island in those early days. However, by the end of the 1600s, people and activities moved north to a port town called Broad Creek.
What Was Kent Fort?
Kent Fort was more than just a fort; it was a small community. It helped the English explore and settle new lands. Its location on southern Kent Island was very strategic. It allowed settlers to trade and live in the area.
This settlement was a big step for England in the New World. It showed that they could build lasting communities. The fort protected the settlers and their goods. It also helped them connect with Native American tribes for trade.
A Look Back: Building the Fort
William Claiborne established Kent Fort in 1631. He was an important figure in the early history of the colonies. The fort quickly became a busy place. It was a center for trade and a safe spot for new settlers.
Life at the fort was not always easy. Records show that a storehouse burned down on October 17, 1631. This shows some of the challenges the early settlers faced. Despite these difficulties, Kent Fort played a vital role in the region for many years. Over time, as more areas were settled, the focus shifted. People began to move to other growing towns like Broad Creek.
Where Did It Go?
Today, the land where Kent Fort once stood has changed a lot. The Eastern Bay has slowly eroded the shoreline. This means the land has worn away into the water. Because of this, the original site of the fort is now underwater.
However, we can still find clues about the settlement. Some old well bases have been found in the bay. These are the only known remains of the fort itself. A stone marker now stands on land to show where the settlement was located. A place called Kent Fort Manor is also at the site.
Archaeologists have found interesting items near the old fort. Three wooden wells were located about 75 feet offshore. Other artifacts were found nearby. These included blue Indian trade beads. These beads are from 1631, matching the fort's founding year. Melted beads were also found. These likely came from the storehouse fire that happened in 1631.
