Independence Day is here! Do you know how much history from the Revolutionary War is within current day Maine? I say current day, because as you may know, Maine did not become a state until 1820. The war for America’s independence ended in 1783 with The Treaty of Paris. Nonetheless, the history in Maine during this time period is fascinating.
America Suffered Her Worst Naval Defeat in Maine Until Pearl Harbor
And you stand exactly where it happened and get a tour in beautiful Castine!
Castine SignDavid Bugenske/TSM Maine
Fort George was built by Great Britain in 1779. The Patriots, outnumbering the British, wanted to overtake the fort and access to the Penobscot River, but lost this battle called the Penobscot Expedition. Even Paul Revere’s reputation (yes, THAT Paul Revere) was tarnished as a consequence of this defeat, and he was arrested for being cowardice … yikes.
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Fort George, MEDavid Bugenske/TSM Maine
Although the battle at Fort George did not end in our forefather’s favor, this serves as a great reminder that it isn’t who wins the battle, but the war. Castine is a beautiful area to visit especially on our nation’s birthday with it being rich in history that helped make America what it is today. Read more on the Penobscot Expedition here before you visit!
The First American Naval Battle Occurred in Maine
Machias, MaineGoogle Maps
The Battle of Machias, also known as Battle of the Margaretta, broke out on June 11th, 1775. It was the first naval engagement during the Revolutionary War. THE FIRST! The CliffsNotes version is that some aggressive British soldiers sailed into Machias Bay and wanted future Mainers to sign a document proving their loyalty. They rebelled, fought off the British with pitchforks, axes, and hunting rifles melting down anything for ammunition, and took over the British ship, the Margaretta!
If you decide to visit Machias, definitely checkout Burnham Tavern Museum which features artifacts and further information on the Battle of Machias.
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The Most Popular Dog Names in Maine for 2024
Gallery Credit: Jordan Verge
Hiking Great Pond Mountain in Maine
Pictures from hiking Great Pond Mountain in Maine.
Max McClung scored 12 of his 33 points in the fourth quarter, and the Windy City Bulls went on a 15-2 run in the fourth quarter to pull away for a 121-106 win over the Maine Celtics in an NBA G League game Friday night at the Portland Expo.
Kevin Knox II added 30 points, 21 in the second half.
Amari Williams led the Celtics with 26 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. Jalen Bridges made six 3-pointers and finished with 22 points, but the Celtics dropped to 2-8 in their last 10 games. Maine has lost four straight games at the Expo.
Press Herald sports writers nominate high school athletes from the prior week’s games.
Readers vote for their top choice and the winner will be announced in the newspapers the following Sunday all season long!
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A collective of environmental, arts and Indigenous-led organizations is collaborating to produce We Are the Watershed, a two-day event aimed at reconnecting humans with nature and revitalizing the health of waterways, estuaries, and the bay in Peskotomuhkatikuk (traditional Passamaquoddy territory). Events, including theatrical performances, music, culinary experiences and an exhibition of submitted artwork, will be held on May 1 and 2 at Eastport Arts Center (EAC). A publication of written and visual works will also be released with proceeds to support conservation efforts and spreading awareness of their impacts.
Submissions sought: Written and visual works are currently sought from artists and creatives on both sides of the border across Peskotomuhkatikuk for the publication, which will be sold by donation at the May event. Proceeds from the sale will be dedicated to related community-building efforts, public engagement, and continued restoration efforts. The deadline for digital submission for the publication is April 1.
Physical works can be dropped off at EAC Sunday, April 26 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to be a part of the exhibition, which will run May 1 through 15. Artists under 18 will receive 100% of the proceeds if they opt to put their pieces up for sale during the exhibit, which will run May 1 through May 15. Artists over 18 will receive 70% of the proceeds with the remainder going toward promoting awareness of and supporting conservation efforts for the Passamaquoddy Bay.
The Eastport Arts Center
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Every week through Apr 01, 2026. Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
