How the British Invasion of Maine in 1814 Led to Statehood-- Part 2

In Castine, prior to its eight month occupation by the British, town officials had condemned  the declaration of war and held a dim view of President James Madison and his predecessor, Thomas Jefferson.  They were Democrat-Republicans whom they felt were "anti-commerce" and "anti-New England."

The War of 1812 interrupted New England trans-Atlantic trade.

After Napoleon's defeat in 1814, the British ramped up their efforts in North America and sailed into several Maine ports with no opposition.

In early July, British ships, including the bomb ship HMS Terror sailed into Passamaquoddy Bay and took control of Fort Sullivan, Eastport and all the islands and towns along the bay.  In September, the HMS Terror took part in the Battle of Baltimore which led to "The Star-Spangled Banner."

--Brock-Perry