Old Stone Fort (Rockport, Massachusetts)

Rockport · Massachusetts · War of 1812

Quick BriefA fort that existed in 1814 in Rockport, Massachusetts during the War of 1812, also known as Sea Fensibles Barrack. On September 9, 1814, just after midnight, it was captured in a sneak attack by the British frigate Nymphe, dismantled, and all nine sea fencibles were taken prisoner.

Coastal defense

History & Significance

The fort was erected by public subscription as a protection against British warships during the War of 1812. Located on Bearskin Neck, it was a two-story high structure with two large chimneys and four fireplaces.

The Sea Fencibles were the Sandy Bay Militia, a locally-sponsored home guard for coastal defense established during the War of 1812. On September 9, 1814, just after midnight, the Old Stone Fort was captured in a sneak attack by the British frigate Nymphe; upon capture, the fort was dismantled, the ammunition was looted, and all nine sea fencibles were taken prisoner.

One British barge landed ashore and captured the sea fencibles, while a second barge fired a cannonball at the town with such force that the barge began to sink. Stones from the former fort were used in the construction of the harbor's breakwater. A plaque is located on the Historic Transit Tower building, which was built in 1892 on the site.