In 1808, Major Lemuel Trescott oversaw the construction of a garrison on a hill overlooking the Eastport area. Adams Street today borders the former location of this fort on the north, High Street on the west, Sullivan Street on the south, and Water Street on the east. The only remaining evidence of the fort in this location is the ruin of the Fort Sullivan Powder House on McKinley Street, a short distance off Adams Street. It is unclear for whom the fort was named, but it was reportedly first called Fort Sullivan in March 1813. The British occupied Eastport and this fort from July 1814 until June 30, 1818. Fort Sullivan was used as a military facility until 1873.

In 1877 the government sold the property at Fort Sullivan. The northernmost officers' quarters, built in 1809, was separated from the other two sections of quarters and moved to its present location at 74 Washington Street. Another section was moved to Orange Street, but it deteriorated and was destroyed. The Washington Street building is presently a museum owned and operated by the Border Historical Society. Admission is free; donations are happily accepted.

A tour of the Barracks Museum is worthwhile as a study of early 1800's architecture and construction. A visit will present much more about Eastport, however. Each room is filled with historical photographs and items, both military and civilian, not only concerning Fort Sullivan but also the sardine and ground fishing industries. One room is dedicated to the genealogy of this area. Open July, August, Tuesday thru Saturday, 1 - 4 p.m. and Maine Salmon Festival in Eastport Weekend, September 11 & 12, 2004.

Eastport, Maine: Easternmost City in the U.S.A.