Machias

Burnham Tavern

Tavern · 14 Free St, Machias, ME 04654

The oldest surviving building in eastern Maine, built in 1770, where Machias patriots met on June 11, 1775, to plan the capture of the British armed schooner HMS Margaretta. The tavern was the community's meeting house, courthouse, and gathering place. After the battle, the wounded British captain James Moore was brought here and died of his injuries. The tavern is maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution and is open for tours.

Fort O'Brien State Historic Site

Battlefield · Fort Rd, Machiasport, ME 04655

A fortification site near the mouth of the Machias River built to defend against British counterattacks after the Margaretta capture. The fort, named for Jeremiah O'Brien, was attacked and rebuilt multiple times during the war. The earthwork remains are partially visible. The site is maintained by Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands and offers views of the coastal geography that made Machias strategically important for privateering.

Machias River and Bay

Landmark · Machias River, Machias, ME 04654

The Machias River and the bay it empties into formed the strategic geography of the June 12, 1775 naval battle. The Margaretta was anchored in the river; the Unity and other boats attacked from the bay. The river has changed relatively little in character. The tidal falls that gave the town its name — 'Machias' from the Passamaquoddy for 'bad little falls' — are still visible at the appropriate tide.

Machiasport Historical Society

Museum · Gates House, Machiasport, ME 04655

The historical society maintains collections related to the Battle of Machias, the O'Brien family, and the region's role in the Revolution. The collection includes documents, artifacts, and records from the privateering operations Machias supported throughout the war. The society operates out of the Gates House (c. 1807), a federal-style house that reflects the post-war prosperity the Revolution helped create.

O'Brien Memorial, Machias River

Monument · Court St, Machias, ME 04654

A monument near the Machias River commemorating Jeremiah O'Brien and the other men who captured HMS Margaretta on June 12, 1775 — the first naval battle of the American Revolution. The O'Brien family, originally Irish immigrants, had been in Machias for years; Jeremiah was one of five brothers who participated in the capture. The monument marks the town's claim to the title 'Lexington of the Sea.'