Fort Knox State Historic Site, Maine – Legends of America
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of midcoast Maine, the Fort Knox State Historic Site stands as a testament to the region’s rich and often tumultuous history. More than just a historical landmark, it’s an immersive experience that combines the imposing presence of Fort Knox, one of New England’s best-preserved military fortifications, with the breathtaking panoramic views offered by the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. This unique combination allows visitors to delve into the past while simultaneously appreciating the natural beauty that defines this corner of the United States.
A Fortress Forged in History
The story of Fort Knox is interwoven with the historical tapestry of Maine itself. During the colonial era, Maine was an integral part of Massachusetts, a relationship that frequently embroiled the territory in border disputes with British Canada. The strategic area between Castine and Bangor, a hub for the lucrative lumber industry, became a focal point of contention, experiencing British invasion and occupation during the American Revolution. The British even went so far as to dub the region "New Ireland," underscoring their ambition to assert control.
In 1779, the Province of Massachusetts Bay mounted the Penobscot Expedition in a determined effort to expel the British. However, the campaign ended in a devastating defeat for the Americans. A naval task force comprising 44 ships suffered staggering losses, with 43 vessels destroyed and approximately 500 casualties. This calamitous event marked the United States’ worst naval defeat until the attack on Pearl Harbor. Britain maintained its grip on the area for four years until the conclusion of the Revolutionary War.
The War of 1812 saw history repeat itself, with British forces once again seizing control of the region in 1814, holding it for eight months before finally relinquishing it to the United States under the terms of the Treaty of Ghent. These repeated incursions fueled anti-British sentiment and ultimately spurred the post-war movement for Maine’s statehood. In 1820, Maine achieved its long-sought independence, in part driven by the perception that Massachusetts had failed to adequately protect the region from foreign aggression.
The Aroostook War of 1838-39, a bloodless dispute over the international boundary between the British colony of New Brunswick, Canada, and the state of Maine, further underscored the region’s vulnerability and the need for robust defenses.
The Birth of Fort Knox
In 1844, the State of Maine embarked on an ambitious project: the construction of Fort Knox. This formidable structure was intended to safeguard the Penobscot River Valley from potential future British naval incursions. Unlike earlier forts built from wood, Fort Knox was constructed from durable granite, a testament to its intended permanence and strength.
Designed by Joseph G. Totten, the foremost fortification engineer of the Army Corps of Engineers at the time, Fort Knox was a Third System coastal fortification. This designation meant it was part of a comprehensive national program to fortify America’s coastline. The fort’s construction was a massive undertaking, requiring significant resources and manpower. Despite the expenditure of over a million dollars, the fort was never fully completed. Construction continued until 1869 when funding was withdrawn, leaving some aspects of the original design unrealized.
The fort was named in honor of Major General Henry Knox, America’s first Secretary of War. Knox, a prominent figure in the American Revolution, retired to Thomaston, Maine, in 1796, solidifying his connection to the state.
A Fort That Never Fought
Fort Knox was first garrisoned in 1863 during the Civil War. However, the troops stationed there were primarily recruits undergoing training before being assigned to active duty. Despite the ongoing conflict, Fort Knox never saw battle.
Following the Civil War, the fort remained largely unoccupied until the onset of the Spanish-American War in 1898. During this period, a controlled minefield was laid in the Penobscot River as a defensive measure. Yet, once again, Fort Knox remained untouched by military action.
In the years that followed, a single ordnance sergeant was assigned to the fort to serve as a caretaker, responsible for maintaining the grounds and buildings. For a time, the fort also served as a torpedo storehouse, housing naval mines. Today, this building has been repurposed as the Visitor’s Center, welcoming guests and providing information about the fort’s history.
From Federal Property to State Historic Site
In 1923, the federal government declared Fort Knox excess property and put its 125-acre grounds up for sale. The State of Maine recognized the historical significance of the fort and purchased the property. Since 1943, Fort Knox has been administered as a Maine state historic site, preserving its legacy for future generations. In 1970, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, further cementing its importance in American history.
Today, Fort Knox stands as one of the best-preserved forts in the United States, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past. Exploring its granite walls, casemates, and ramparts provides a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers who once stood guard, protecting the Penobscot River Valley.
The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory: A Modern Marvel
Adding a modern dimension to the Fort Knox State Historic Site is the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory. Opened to the public in 2007, the bridge spans the Penobscot River, connecting Prospect and Verona Island. Its most striking feature is the 420-foot-tall observatory, the tallest occupied structure in Maine.
The Penobscot Narrows Observatory is a marvel of engineering and design. It is the only bridge observatory in the Western Hemisphere and one of the tallest in the world. Visitors can ascend to the top of the observatory via a high-speed elevator, where they are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Penobscot River and Bay, the surrounding Maine countryside, and the distant mountains to the west.
The bridge’s design incorporates granite, paying homage to the material’s historical significance in the local economy. The 2,120-foot-long bridge is a testament to human ingenuity and a symbol of Maine’s commitment to progress while honoring its heritage.
A Glimpse into the Paranormal
Adding another layer of intrigue to Fort Knox is its reputation as a haunted site. Despite never seeing military action or experiencing any fatalities, the fort has been the subject of numerous paranormal investigations and has been featured on television programs exploring the supernatural.
Visitors and investigators alike have reported various unexplained phenomena, including sightings of ghostly figures, disembodied voices, heavy breathing, and laughter when no one is present. Some have even reported being touched by unseen hands. Investigators have captured ghostly voices and strange anomalies on camera, adding to the fort’s mystique.
One frequently reported apparition is that of a figure in a duster coat, believed to be Ordnance Sergeant Leopold Hegyi, who served as the fort’s sole caretaker between 1887 and 1900. According to legend, Hegyi’s ghost continues to patrol the grounds, ensuring the fort’s safety and upkeep.
Whether one believes in the paranormal or not, the stories of ghostly encounters add an element of mystery and intrigue to the Fort Knox experience.
Visiting Fort Knox State Historic Site
Fort Knox is open daily from May 1 to October 31, allowing visitors to explore its historical depths and enjoy the panoramic views from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. It’s a destination that offers something for everyone, from history buffs and architecture enthusiasts to nature lovers and those with an interest in the paranormal.
A visit to Fort Knox State Historic Site is an opportunity to step back in time, appreciate the beauty of Maine’s landscape, and perhaps even encounter a ghost or two. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Maine’s rich history and enduring spirit.