CHAPTER III

FORT SCAMMELL

On House Island, Casco Bay, you will find Fort Scammell. This fort was built in 1808, under the direction of Mr. H.A.S. Dearborn, who under authorization of the War Department, purchased for twelve hundred dollars, all the southwest part of House Island containing twelve acres more or less. On the highest point of this island an octagonal block-house of timber was erected, with a porthole and a gun on each side. The upper story projecting over the lower, two or three feet; contained the battery. On the low upright center timbers of the roof, was a carved wooden eagle with extended wings. Fort Scammell, like its sister, Fort Preble, was named for a Revolutionary officer, Colonel Alexander Scammell. Fort Scammell was never so extensive a fortification as Fort Preble.

It was enlarged at the time of the Civil War, until its equipment called for seventy-one pieces. Fort Scammell may be reached by boat from either Portland or South Portland.

The treasure hunter, here too, will have a great time with his detector. There should be, hidden out of sight, a number of old relics that could be located with a good metal detector. The date of the fort being as I mentioned 1808, therefore the artifacts that might be found here, would really have some value. Don't forget to secure permission before you hunt on any property. The owner will like you better for this.