Established in 1979, Fort Williams Park is one of Maine’s most-visited attractions. With scenic coastal views, a picturesque lighthouse, and ruins of aircraft batteries that used to line the rocky cliffs, it’s easy to see why so many people spend time there. While it hosts community events such as the Beach to Beacon 10K race, one might easily overlook the fact that access to the property has been restricted for the nearly a century as it served a very different role.
Though Fort Williams was in operation from 1872 to 1964, its use in military operations first occurred in 1776 after British warships burned the city of Falmouth (later renamed Portland) and eight soldiers were stationed there to warn of further assaults. In 1787 George Washington ordered the construction of the Portland Head Light lighthouse, an 80-foot tall structure that is one of the park’s most distinctive features today and is still in use by the U.S. Coast Guard.
The Goddard Mansion, whose stately ruins visitors to the park can now explore, was constructed in 1853-1859 for Colonel John Goddard, a businessman who served in the 1st Maine Volunteer Cavalry Regimen. A little over a decade later in 1872, 14 acres were purchased to supplement Fort Preble, and 76 more acres were added by 1898, when three batteries were added. The following year the fortifications were officially named Fort Williams.
In the 20th century, artillery and anti-aircraft capabilities were added as Fort Williams became a critical component in the protection of the eastern seaboard. As World War II was drawing to a close, the fort was transitioned to administrative duties and much of the firepower was removed. The town of Cape Elizabeth took ownership of the property when Fort Williams closed in 1964, and most of the gun batteries were buried. The interior of the mansion was destroyed in a controlled burn as it had been out of use for years and was dangerously deteriorated.
As the park evolved, recreational facilities including tennis and pickleball courts, a baseball diamond, picnic tables, and trails were added. Today, it is easily accessible and just across the Maine border, where both locals and tourists can enjoy breathtaking views, historic structures, and events such as the Sounds by the Sea concert series on the property. We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon exploring and photographing the beautiful scenery. State and national parks always have something about them that is special, but even among them Fort Williams Park stands out as a very unique and memorable destination – one that you won’t want to miss in your travels along Route 1!
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