In partnership with the Maine Memory Network Maine Memory Network

Maine History Online

Maine History Online

A Maine Historical Society Website

Header Graphic

A Naval Disaster: The Penobscot Expedition

Henry Clinton letter on Penobscot River fort, 1779

Henry Clinton letter on Penobscot River fort, 1779

Item 7475 info
Maine Historical Society

In 1779, much of the action of the American Revolution had moved south.



But, the British saw an opportunity on the Downeast coast of Maine to establish a strategic naval position to challenge American privateers, set up a loyalist community, access needed timber resources, and establish a coastal trading post.



British General Henry Clinton wrote a letter concerning construction of a fort on the Penobscot River and activities of troops there "to defend themselves against any Attempt the Rebels in those parts may be able to make ..."