The Battles for Machias

I’m Sarah Craighead Dedmon. Welcome to Way Downeast, where I’ll share small-town stories and big conversations -- about the people, communities, struggles and successes of Washington County, Maine.

Photo by Michelle Stanhope

Half, if not more, of the Revolutionary War battles fought in present-day Maine took place in Washington County. In this episode, you’ll hear how the British lost not one but three ships in Machias, and how the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Washington County patriots banded together to drive the British from Machias, once and for all. Passamaquoddy Tribal Historic Preservation Officer Donald Soctomah tells of the significance of Chief Francis Joseph Neptune’s valiant “long shot,” and what came after the American Revolution for the tribe, including a gift from General George Washington. 

Welcome to Way Downeast.

Revolutionary War Reenactors of Downeast Maine

Photo by Loring Munson

David Cale

An experienced fisherman, clamer and diver, David serves the town of Machiasport as Harbor Master.

Donald Soctomah

A Native American author, filmmaker, historian, and politician. He serves as the historic preservation officer for the Passamaquoddy tribe as part of the Wabanaki Confederacy.

Valdine Atwood

The undisputed premier local historian for the Machias area, a long time member of the Hannah Weston chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution which operates historic Burnham Tavern museum.

Joe McBrine

Founding member of the Revolutionary War Reenactors, Downeast Maine and passionate local history education advocate.