Colonel Benjamin Foster

Colonel Benjamin Foster, who lived from 1726 to 1818, was a veteran of three wars who built a log cabin on this spot in 1785, then the easternmost habitation of New England. A man of strong character, sound judgment and unflinching courage, he led the Machias settlement in counsel and action during the Revolutionary War. He held the commission of colonel in the service of the State of Massachusetts and was Commander-in-Chief of the militia of the eastern district of Lincoln County. For his services in this capacity, he received the thanks of his state and was presented with a sword by General Washington. Wodden Foster, one of the original proprietors of Machias Township, also served the settlement in peace and war. He was the first blacksmith of the settlement, was prominent in its affairs during the Revolutionary War, and served as a private in the regiment commanded by his brother, Colonel Benjamin Foster.

East Machias, Maine · United States