Colonial Pemaguid is one of the nation's earliest and most significant historical 17th century settlements. Found in the Mid-coast region of Maine, it is estimated that Colonial Pemaguid was settled originally in 1605. Year round settlement did not occur until approximately 1625. This was also the site of the first stone fort built in America in 1692 – Fort William Henry.

The Fort was decommissioned when it was no longer needed as a defensive site. No other structure was built on the site, unlike so many other abandoned early settlements. As a result, the significance of the Fort as a historic site was first recognized in 1795, but the press that surrounded the recognition also lead to many tall tales about the area. Today it is still hard to separate fact from fiction.

What is definitely fact is that this location provides the best insight into the life of early American settlements. Located near the present-day town of Bristol, Maine, Ford William Henry is an avenue to the past. For a memorable experience while in Maine, travel to Colonial Pemaguid and take a tour of the Fort with a Park Ranger.