New England Defenses:About
Welcome to my website! From my early years, I've been fascinated by Coastal Defense installations in my local Harbor Defense of Portsmouth. In 2021, I embarked on a project with three primary objectives: documenting, preserving, and restoring Coastal Defense sites throughout New England. Along my journey, I've had the privilege of meeting numerous individuals whose invaluable assistance has propelled this project forward. I highly recommend exploring the resources provided by the Coast Defense Study Group (CDSG), an organization whose objectives closely align with mine, albeit on a broader scale encompassing the entire United States and beyond. Their extensive archives on Harbor Defenses have been instrumental in advancing my work, and I'm immensely grateful for their contribution.
- PRESERVATION
Following World War II, the majority of former Coast Defense sites underwent transition from government ownership to private hands. While some were repurposed by landowners or converted into public spaces, many others succumbed to urban development or were deemed unsafe for public access. It's imperative that we safeguard these historical landmarks from further deterioration. Out of approximately 150 sites scattered across New England, over 50 have already been lost to demolition or neglect. Preserving these sites is paramount to ensuring their survival for future generations.
- RESTORATION
Another crucial aspect of our mission is the restoration of former Coast Artillery Corps (CAC) sites. While our current involvement in restoration projects is limited, we are prioritizing the restoration of the Harbor Entrance Control Post (HECP) at Fort Stark, a substantial endeavor demanding considerable time and resources. As these structures continue to age, it's essential to undertake restoration efforts to preserve and interpret their historical significance. Presently, there are no restored Endicott or World War II gun batteries in New England. However, initiatives such as the cleanup of batteries at Fort Adams and the proposed renovation of Battery 201 in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, underscore the growing interest in preserving our military heritage.
If you have any inquiries, comments, or simply wish to connect, please don't hesitate to contact me anytime. Your engagement and support are greatly appreciated.