First Naval Battle of the American Revolution

In June 1775, faced with the choice of supplying lumber to British troops or risking hunger and retaliation, the settlers of Machias boldly captured a British lieutenant and his ship, the Margaretta, during a daring battle. Although the lieutenant escaped and later died, the patriots emerged victorious. This event is often called the "Lexington of the Sea." The anchor symbolizes the deep historical ties the people of Machias have to the sea and their commitment to liberty.

The surrounding Machias Bay area saw continued British retaliatory raids and ongoing Patriot-Loyalist conflict throughout the war, making it one of New England's most contested maritime frontiers.