Introducing The Machiases
Although Machias proper hosts a branch of the University of Maine, it’s not a place to spend any time. However, its beautiful neighbors, East Machias and Machiasport, are worthy of some attention. Machiasport, in fact, is where the first naval engagement of the Revolutionary War took place. After the king of England received the Declaration of Independence from the colonies, he sent a frigate to Machiasport to monitor the timely collection and transportation of lumber to Portland to build his ships. But a few drunken American colonists at Burnham Tavern (207-255-4432; www.burnhamtavern.com; Main St, East Machias; 9am-5pm Mon-Fri Jun-Sep) decided to pay the frigate a visit before they could reach shore. After killing the English captain with a single shot to the head, they emptied the ship and burned it on the shores of Jonesport. The king’s reaction to this act of rebellion? He ordered his troops to torch Portland.
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Don’t miss Jasper Beach, a bizarre mile-long beach consisting entirely of polished red jasper stones. As the waves wash in, the rocks slide against one another, creating a rather haunting song. It’s one of two such beaches in the world (the other is in Japan). To reach it, head down Machias Rd toward the village of Starboard.
The Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce (207-255-4402; www.machiaschamber.org; 12 E Main St/US 1, Machias; 10am-4pm Mon-Fri Jun-Aug), next to the Irving gas station on the edge of town, provides lots of useful information.
Last updated: Jul 22, 2009
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