The History of America's First Fort Knox: Prospect, Maine

by Liza Gardner Walsh

"Anyone who has ever visited For Knox knows the powerful spell it casts, but through understanding the fort's place in history, it becomes even more dramatic. Although the fort was the epitome of coastal defense works when it was constructed in the mid-1800s, it never exchanged fire with an enemy of fires a shot in anger. The fort symbolized a bygone era in warfare of changing economics, and shifting borders. It is a living history lesson on display for anyone to visit and treasure. Taking an in-depth look at the circumstances that created the fort as well as those that have allowed it to thrive in the twenty-first century, this book also provides a never before look at the vital role the Friends of Fort Knox played in saving the fort from ruin to ensure this remarkable heritage remained fro our children and grandchildren. Above, all, Fort Knox stands as a testament to the people of Maine." (from the back cover)

Genres: History

96 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Andrea Tumbleson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I obtained this book during our visit at the fort. We spent way longer than we thought we would exploring the fort. The history, architecture and layout of the fort drew us in as we kept venturing deeper through its many walkways. I picked up the book when we were leaving because I was left wanting to know more about this masterpiece. The book was a good read and built my knowledge of its history. If you ever get a chance to visit do so, but make sure you allow enough time, lol. We also visited the Penobscot bridge that is in walking distance to the fort.

[SusanwithaGoodBook · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bought at the fort. It was a good overview of the history of the fort and its setting, but the best part was the history of the keepers. They lived pretty sad lonely lives there after the fort fell into disuse... but it was never really used much. The fact is that nothing really ever happened there, no shots were ever fired in battle, so there's not a lot to say... but it is still an impressive fortification and was fun to explore.

[George Kasnic · Rating 3 out of 5]

A brief survey of not just the fort, but the history of the land around it, the geology, the community, the impact of the fort on the State of Maine. A few editorial errors in one of the latter chapters with a passage being repeated, but full of worthwhile information.

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book for anyone interested in the history of Maine, as well as anyone who has visited or wants to visit the fort.

IF '13' is an unlucky number, than the spooks of Fort Knox were at work in Chapter 13. It describes the extensive work of the Friends of Fort Knox, but due to an editing problem, some paragraphs were repeated and some information is missing.
Otherwise, an informative read!