Independence Day is here! Do you know how much Revolutionary War history is in present-day Maine? I say today because, as you may know, Maine did not become a state until 1820. The War for American Independence ended with the Treaty of Paris in 1783. Still, Maine's history during this period is fascinating.

America suffered its worst naval defeat in Maine until Pearl Harbor

And you'll stand right where it happened and get a tour of beautiful Castine!

Fort George was built by Britain in 1779. The Patriots, who outnumbered the British, wanted to take the fort and access to the Penobscot River, but lost this battle, which was called the Penobscot Expedition. Even Paul Revere's reputation (yes, THAT Paul Revere) was tarnished by this defeat and he was arrested for cowardice… yuck.

Although the Battle of Fort George did not end in our ancestors' favor, it is a good reminder that it is not who wins the battle, but who wins the war. Castine is a beautiful area to visit, especially on our nation's birthday, as it is rich in history that helped make America what it is today. Read more about the Penobscot Expedition here before you visit!

The first American naval battle took place in Maine

The Battle of Machias, also known as the Battle of the Margaretta, broke out on June 11, 1775. It was the first naval battle during the Revolutionary War. THE FIRST! The CliffsNotes version says that some aggressive British soldiers sailed into Machias Bay and demanded that future Maine residents sign a document proving their loyalty. They rebelled, fought the British with pitchforks, axes, and hunting rifles, melted everything down for ammunition, and took over the British ship, the Margaretta!

If you plan to visit Machias, be sure to visit the Burnham Tavern Museum, which displays artifacts and other information about the Battle of Machias.