Old Fort Western — Attraction in Augusta

August 19, 2023 - If your “ thing” is early American History, I’d recommend stopping in Augusta . . . $ 15 Adults, for a guided tour!

History Overview

Prior 1600’s - Wabenaki Confederacy ( Algonquian, Abenaki tribes in area)

1607 - Europeans explored from Popham Colony, up Kennebec River

1628 - Investors from Plymouth Colony built early trading post

1721 - Fort Richmond built

1752 - Fort Frankfort/Shirley built

1754 - Kennebec Proprietors built Fort Western, as trading post too

1754 - Fort Halifax built

1754 to 1763 - French & Indian War fought between British & French over colonial claims in America

1755 - Fort Richmond decommissioned

1763 - Treaty of Paris, France lost their land to Great Britain 🇬🇧

1766/67- These forts decommissioned, only Western Fort survives

1775 - Benedict Arnold stopped at Western Fort, to repair his boats on the way to Quebec in the American Revolution

1852 to 1922 - Fort Western private residence & general store, then museum

1922/23 - City of Augusta purchased Fort Western

1969 - Western Fort added to National Registry of Historic Places

( Western Fort, oldest wooden fort in New England)

Over all, I’d rate this historic stop a 4.3 with a couple of suggestions. I enjoy historic tours that cover the exact location, and cultural significance of the times & people! Our guide did a great job on that part of our tour. Pointing out the rooms, furniture, the weapons, etc. There’s a “ big picture” that was missing . . . Context at that period in history? Looking at the French , English, and Indians who were all involved in the conflict ?

There were 4 forts constructed at this time to protect Great Britain’s land claims in this area of New England. We didn’t really hear that part of the history? I realize most guides are volunteers, I hesitate to mention any problems with the program. You can fill in the “rest of the story “ on your own, if you are interested.

Also I might suggest it’s a park, maybe add in a few picnic tables just outside the fences, for folks who’s like to sit & enjoy their lunch? Beautiful area next to the Kennebec River with Augusta split city on both...

A great place full of history that comes to life! The oldest still in use colonial building in the USA, and home to a number of historical items. A place where everyone of all ages can enjoy a great look back in time, and learn a great deal about how people lived in the colonies that became the United States. From how they made clothes and grew food, to tools and living spaces, as well as the weapons they used to defend themselves in battle. This is an awesome experience that I would highly recommend to all!! I enjoyed being there as a chaperone for my daughter's second grade class field trip, and I hope to go back again this Summer to check out more of what they have at this amazing how e of history! Located right on the Kennebec River in Augusta Maine, and easy to get into from the main thorough fares. Well worth the price of admission, currently 10.00$ for adults, stop by if you can and be...

I loved this Fort! Very interesting history and tons of original objects!

We want to say a special thank to our guide William, who is also a descendant of one of the first 50 people, who arrived to the Fort almost 300 years ago - isn't it incredible??

William gave us an amazing tour, full of great details about the fort history, the everyday life of people in the fort in that time, explained the purpose of many objects there (we learned so much!!), explained how the canons worked and much much more. We really enjoed his tour and his sense of humor! Thank you again, William!

Also, William and everyone who worked there wore uniforms and dresses of that time on an extremely hot day and we appreciated it. Not easy! The ladies in the shop were super nice, too! Highly recommend to visit it! It's open seasonal - too cold in the winter we were told. Check their schedule...