Whether dotting the coastline, guarding the banks of the Kennebec, or defending the Canadian border, Maine’s many forts have sheltered its towns and people since the 17th century. And writer Harry Gratwick, a seasonal resident of Vinalhaven Island, has written a new book that uncovers the stories of adventure and bravery from the forts of Maine.

“The Forts of Maine, Silent Sentinels of the Pine Tree State”  published by The History Press, offers the history of and pictures from a dozen Maine forts. “Both Fort Kent and Fort Fairfield were built after the War of 1812 during the Aroostook War, when hostilities raged between Mainers and British Canadians over the region’s  rich timber stands,”  according to information from the publisher. “Portland Harbor’s Fort Preble became embroiled in the Civil War when  Confederate raiders tried — and failed– to steal a ship from its waters,” the publisher’s statement continued.

Gratwick, a retired teacher, had a long career as a secondary educator in Philadelphia where he chaired the history department at Germantown Friends School.  He is a graduate of Williams College and has a master’s degree from Columbia University. 

Gratwick is a retired teacher