Fort Sumner (Portland, Maine)
Portland · Maine · War of 1812
History & Significance
Constructed in 1794 as part of the nation's first system of coastal fortifications, Fort Sumner protected Portland's harbor approaches from Munjoy Hill. The fort consisted of a blockhouse, magazine, and barracks on the summit, plus a water battery—probably where Fort Allen Park now stands—representing an upgrade of the Revolutionary War Fort Allen.
The battery was rebuilt in 1798 and 1808. In 1800–1801, Fort Sumner's commander was Captain John Henry, who resigned in 1801, became a British spy, and was later instrumental in starting the War of 1812.
Captain Amos Stoddard commanded the fort in 1802 and kept it garrisoned despite orders to Fort Constitution in New Hampshire by dividing his company. The fort lessened in importance with the construction of Fort Preble and Fort Scammel in 1808, part of the federal government's second system of fortifications.
Fort Allen was rebuilt in 1814 with city resources due to the British capture of Eastport and Castine. Fort Sumner was probably abandoned in the early 1820s. In 1827, John Neal opened the earliest gymnasium established by an American at the fort.
Key Facts
Map
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🧳 Visiting
What you’ll see when you visit:
- Historic coastal defense site from 1794 on Munjoy Hill
- Views of Portland skyline and Back Cove from elevated position
- Fort Sumner Steps provide access to the historic location
- War of 1812 defensive fortification (originally Fort Allen)
- Site preserved as public park with no original structures remaining
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Sumner_(Maine)
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=186400
- https://military-history.fandom.com/wiki/Fort_Sumner_(Maine)
- https://fortwiki.com/Fort_Sumner_(2)
- https://downeast.com/arts-leisure/road-1812/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harbor_Defenses_of_Portland