Nestled on Jerry’s Point in New Castle, New Hampshire, Fort Stark stands as a silent sentinel, guarding the confluence of the Piscataqua River, Little Harbor, and the expansive Gulf of Maine. This historic military fortification, now a cherished state historic site and state park, invites visitors to explore centuries of American coastal defense history.
A Legacy of Defense: Early Fortifications and the American Revolution
The strategic importance of Jerry’s Point was recognized early in colonial history. As far back as 1746, the site was first fortified as Battery Cumberland, equipped with nine formidable 32-pounder cannons. This early outpost was one of seven crucial fortifications designed to protect Portsmouth Harbor, safeguarding the burgeoning colonial settlements against maritime threats. Other defenses included Forts Washington, Constitution (formerly William and Mary), and Dearborn in New Hampshire, alongside Forts Sullivan, McClary, and Foster in neighboring Maine.
With the advent of the American Revolution, the need for robust defenses intensified. In 1775, the fort underwent a significant rebuilding effort, re-armed with new artillery, including two 32-pounders and six 24-pounders. However, these guns were temporarily redeployed to strengthen other vital forts in the region. By September 1775, the fort was re-equipped with artillery captured from the nearby Fort William and Mary, and it remained garrisoned until 1778. It was during this pivotal period that the fortification received its distinguished name, Fort Stark, in honor of General John Stark, a revered commander of the New Hampshire forces who achieved renown at the Battle of Bennington in 1777.
From First System to the War of 1812
The late 18th century marked a new era for American coastal defense with the establishment of the First System of U.S. fortifications. In 1794, a new battery capable of holding nine guns was constructed on the site of the fort. The strategic value of this location grew even further with the establishment of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in 1800, making the defense of the harbor an absolute imperative.
During the tumultuous War of 1812, a company of 120 militiamen, under the command of Captain William Marshall, garrisoned the redoubt. At this time, the fort’s armament comprised a mix of 6-pounder and 9-pounder cannons. However, the need for such extensive defenses diminished after the war’s conclusion in 1815, leading to the abandonment of the redoubt.
The Shifting Sands of Defense: Third System and Late 19th Century Modernization
The mid-19th century brought about significant changes in military engineering and strategy. In 1861, ambitious plans were drawn for a massive stone fort on the site, intended to be part of the Third System of fortifications. Yet, this grand vision was never fully realized. By 1873, the United States government reacquired the property as part of a nationwide modernization effort for seacoast defenses. The existing stone forts, including earlier iterations at this location, were deemed vulnerable to the advent of rifled cannons, necessitating entirely new defensive designs.
In 1874, earthworks were planned for what was termed the “Battery at Jerry’s Point,” intended to house eight powerful 15-inch Rodman smoothbore guns, with an additional three “heavy guns” planned for the older redoubt. Unfortunately, funding was abruptly cut off in 1876, leaving the new battery approximately two-thirds complete. While some construction continued in subsequent years, the battery ultimately remained unarmed, a testament to the changing priorities and fiscal constraints of the era.
Beyond its purely military role, Jerry’s Point also served a critical civilian function. In 1887, the Jerry’s Point Lifesaving Station was established on the west side of the point, providing a vital service to mariners along the rugged New Hampshire coast. This station remained operational until 1908 when the Portsmouth Harbor Lifesaving Station on Wood Island, near Fort Foster, took over its duties.
Global Conflicts and Strategic Evolution: From Spanish-American War to World War I
The late 19th century ushered in a period of renewed military urgency, particularly with the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898. Fearing potential bombardments of the U.S. East Coast by the Spanish fleet, emergency batteries were rapidly constructed at critical points, including Fort Stark. These temporary defenses at the fort housed two 8-inch guns, providing immediate, albeit interim, protection. By 1900, these emergency guns were removed to make way for the permanent, modern batteries planned for the site.
Major construction for a new, state-of-the-art fort commenced in 1901 and was successfully completed by 1905. This comprehensive defensive system included four distinct batteries, along with advanced facilities for controlling an intricate underwater minefield strategically placed within the harbor, added between 1907 and 1909. Like other U.S. seacoast forts of its time, Fort Stark was garrisoned by the United States Army Coast Artillery Corps, becoming an integral part of the larger Coast Defenses of Portsmouth, a network that also included Fort Foster and Fort Constitution.
As the United States entered World War I, the demands of the European theater led to the redeployment of some of Fort Stark’s formidable guns. These vital armaments were dismounted and shipped overseas, contributing to the Allied war effort.
The World War II Era and Transition to a State Park
The global conflict of World War II once again underscored the importance of coastal defenses. During this period, the Harbor Defenses of Portsmouth were staunchly garrisoned by the 22nd Coast Artillery Regiment. A unique and noteworthy development occurred in 1942: a new combined Army-Navy Harbor Entrance Control Post and Harbor Defense Command Post was ingeniously constructed atop the inactive Battery Kirk. To maintain an element of surprise and deception, this critical command center was cleverly disguised to resemble a charming seaside mansion, blending seamlessly with the coastal landscape. Following the peak of wartime needs, the remaining guns at Fort Stark were gradually removed and sent to other posts, and the various batteries were ultimately deactivated.
Officially decommissioned in 1948, Fort Stark transitioned from Army control to the U.S. Navy in 1950, which continued to utilize the site for harbor defense purposes until 1953. Subsequently, it served as a vital reserve training center for the Navy until 1980. In a significant move to preserve its rich history and open it to the public, the property was then transferred to the state of New Hampshire, which began its transformation into the cherished state park it is today.
Experiencing Fort Stark State Historic Site Today
Today, the Fort Stark State Historic Site offers a compelling journey through American military history, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue. Visitors can explore the ten-acre fort site through well-maintained walking trails, uncovering numerous fascinating remains. These include the famously disguised World War II Harbor Entrance Control Post, various batteries, gun emplacements, and the preserved 1910 Ordnance Machine Shop, each telling a story of past vigilance.
A small but insightful museum is housed within the Visitors’ Center, featuring one of the remaining 3-inch guns, offering a tangible connection to the fort’s formidable past. The Visitors’ Center is typically open on Saturdays from 12:00 to 4:00 pm, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, providing an opportunity for deeper engagement with the site’s heritage.
The park itself welcomes visitors from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, with convenient parking available from 8 am to 8 pm. While facilities are limited, with only restricted parking and no restrooms, the immersive historical experience and picturesque coastal views make Fort Stark an unforgettable destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It stands as a powerful reminder of New Hampshire’s enduring commitment to national defense and its vibrant past.
Conclusion: A Timeless Sentinel on New Hampshire’s Coast
From its humble beginnings as Battery Cumberland in the 18th century through its vital roles in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Spanish-American War, and both World Wars, Fort Stark has consistently stood as a crucial guardian of Portsmouth Harbor. Its evolution mirrors the broader trajectory of American military engineering and strategic thinking, adapting to new threats and technologies across centuries. Today, as a public state historic site, it offers a unique opportunity to walk through living history, to witness the tangible remains of a dynamic past, and to appreciate the enduring legacy of those who defended New Hampshire’s shores. Fort Stark is more than just ruins; it’s a testament to resilience, innovation, and the strategic importance of this rugged New England coastline.
