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.