Are Group Tours available?

YES, please contact Matt McGuire, Park Manager (see telephone numbers below).

What is the oldest dated gravestone in the cemetery?

1734.

When did they begin to dig out the present cellar holes?

Fall of 1965.

How did they happen to dig here? What started it all?

In 1964 upon seeing some artifacts turned over, Helen Camp asked permission of the owner to dig. It was given and the Custom House was found first, the rest followed.

What do you find in the digs?

All kinds of military equipment, all types of shot, cannonballs, swords hilts, guns, etc. Also everything they used in everyday living - ceramics, cutlery, buttons, coins, glassware, bottles, wine glasses, etc.

Who were the Native Americans that lived at Pemaquid?

Known as the Wawenocks, but actually part of the larger Abenaki tribe.

Have they ever found bones while they were digging?

Yes, many times. Just outside the tavern site, they found what they believed to be the skeleton of a Native American and her baby.

How did they know where the foundations were?

Mostly by objects found. Example: In the Blacksmith's shop they found things pertaining to being a blacksmith. Lots of iron, slag, and bits and pieces of various articles made from iron (horse and ox shoes). Tools for working with iron and made from iron.

How many forts have been built here?

Three.

 

FORT CHARLES (1677-1689)

 

FORT WILLlAM HENRY(1692-1696)

 

FORT FREDERICK (1729-1775)

Is the present fort an original or a reconstruction?

The State of Maine, through the efforts of John H. Cartland, erected Fort William Henry Memorial in 1908. It was built on the original foundation of the last two forts. It stands as a memorial of Fort William Henry.

Why was the fort tower built around the rock?

During the time of Fort Charles (1677-1689) the rock was on the outside. Indians coming up from the water used it as shelter when they attacked the fort. To counter this problem in 1692, Fort William Henry was built around the rock. The rock was probably also used as a bombproof cover.