Built in 1754 by the Boston-based Kennebec Proprietors to expand and strengthen Massachusetts' territorial claims along the Kennebec River, Fort Western served under James Howard as a forward supply base for Massachusetts-built Fort Halifax, 17 miles upriver. Although it was never attacked, it remained garrisoned until 1767. In 1769, Howard purchased the fort buildings and surrounding land, and he and his sons William and Samuel conducted businesses there, including the lumber trade and mercantile business for the settlement. During the American Revolution, Benedict Arnold and his 1,000 plus force stopped at Fort Western for six days in the fall of 1775 on their ill-fated march to Quebec City.