Cape Elizabeth, Maine

The Fort Williams Central Powerhouse is a fascinating abandoned and historic structure in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. It was built in 1905.

Location Added By:

Tom Riley (GoXplr Account)

About This Location

The Fort Williams Central Powerhouse is a fascinating abandoned and historic structure in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.

The Quartermaster Corps erected this structure in 1905 to serve as Fort Williams’ main power source. To shield it from the fire of opposing warships, the building was constructed of reinforced concrete and placed in this secluded area. Inside, coal-fired boilers generated steam that powered generators to supply the fort’s electrical requirements. Subsequently, power was obtained from the neighborhood public utility and the powerhouse was kept operational as an emergency power source. The machinery was kept up-to-date and regularly tested to ensure that the plant could promptly supply the fort with electricity. Each of the major gun batteries had its own tiny power plant to provide energy during military action, and a small brick building next to the powerhouse was constructed to hold electrical transformers.

Visitors are welcome to walk around inside the old building today! Be careful because the structure is not maintained.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

GPS Coordinates:
43.624306, -70.214917
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
Click here for parking directions
Parking Notes:
There is ample parking available at Fort Williams Park. The closest parking area to the Central Powerhouse is located right behind it, next to the old fire barn.

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