Islands in the Kennebec River from Fort Baldwin (2001)
Cannon Emplacement Overlooking Islands in the Kennebec River (2001)
is located on Sabino Hill in Phippsburg. Constructed between 1905 and 1912, three batteries are hidden in the woods overlooking the mouth of the Kennebec River and old Fort Popham.
During World War I, it housed two artillery companies guarding access to central Maine from Bath to Augusta.
In the Second World War, a tall fire-control tower was built to direct artillery if needed.
It was not needed. The Fort has been part of Popham State Park since 1924.
Battery Patric Cogan of two three-inch guns was named in honor of a lieutenant in the 5th Continental Infantry during the Revolutionary War. Cogan, who had also been quartermaster of the 1st New Hampshire Regiment, died August 21, 1778.
Battery John Hardman contained one six-inch “disappearing gun”. It was named in honor of a Captain in the 2nd Maryland Regiment, Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Hardman was taken prisoner at Camden, South Carolina and died while a prisoner of war on September 1, 1780. This battery also housed the fort’s original observation station and electric equipment.
This battery housing two six-inch pedestal guns was named in honor of Brigadier General Joseph R. Hawley who served with distinction during the Civil War.
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