In 1779, much of the action of the American Revolution had moved south.
But, the British saw an opportunity on the Downeast coast of Maine to establish a strategic naval position to challenge American privateers, set up a loyalist community, access needed timber resources, and establish a coastal trading post.
British General Henry Clinton wrote a letter concerning construction of a fort on the Penobscot River and activities of troops there "to defend themselves against any Attempt the Rebels in those parts may be able to make ..."
