Fort Stark, New Hampshire — History & Visitor Guide

Fort Stark (New Castle, Rockingham County, New Hampshire)

New Castle, Rockingham County · New Hampshire · Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II

Quick BriefFort Stark was developed primarily in the early 20th century following the Spanish–American War at Jerry's Point on New Castle Island, though earlier fortifications on the site dating back centuries survive. The fort defended Portsmouth Harbor and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and remained in active use through World War II before being repurposed for Navy reserve training. The property was turned over to New Hampshire in 1979 and 1983, where it now operates as a state historic site.

Endicott SystemCoastal defenseOpen to visitors

History & Significance

The site at Jerry's Point was first fortified in 1746 as Battery Cumberland with nine 32-pounder cannons to defend against the French. During the American Revolution the fort was rebuilt in 1775 and rearmed with two 32-pounders and six 24-pounders; several captured guns from Fort William and Mary were used to rearm the position in September 1775.

In 1794, a new battery for nine guns was constructed as part of the First System of U.S. fortifications. During the War of 1812 a company of 120 militiamen under Captain William Marshall garrisoned the redoubt.

In 1885 the Endicott Board recommended a large-scale fortification plan eventually including Fort Stark, though construction did not begin until 1901. Construction was completed in 1905.

Batteries were named Hunter, Kirk, Hays, and Lytle, honoring Civil War generals David Hunter, Edward Kirk, Alexander Hays, and William Haines Lytle. After American entry into World War I, the two 6-inch guns of Battery Kirk were dismounted for use on the Western Front but were not returned to the fort after the war.

During 1940–1944, the Harbor Defenses of Portsmouth were garrisoned by the 22nd Coast Artillery Regiment. In 1942 a new combined Army-Navy Harbor Entrance Control Post and Harbor Defense Command Post was built atop Battery Kirk and disguised as a seaside mansion.

Battery Hunter's 12-inch guns remained in service until February 1945. The property was partially turned over to the state in 1979 and fully in 1983.

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🧳 Visiting

What you’ll see when you visit:

Restored gun batteries with 12-inch disappearing guns and period artillery
Harbor Entrance Control Post structure from early 20th century
Museum exhibits on coastal defense and naval shipyard history
Coastal setting on Jerry's Point overlooking Portsmouth Harbor

Best time to visitSpring (May-June) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather; summer brings warmth but coastal humidity, while winters are cold and often snowy.

Getting therePortsmouth International Airport at Pease (PSM) is 9.3 km away; the fort is located in New Castle near Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

From the nearest major airportManchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)🚗 49 mi by road⏱️ ≈ 1 hr 18 min drive

Fort Stark (New Castle, Rockingham County, New Hampshire)

History & Significance

Key Facts

Map

🧳 Visiting

Sources

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