The Penobscot Expedition and the Brig Defence with naval architect David Wyman

Watercolor of the Defence by Steve Brookman

‍On Thursday, July 30, at 1 pm, join us in our Hutchins Education Center for an insightful presentation on one of the most significant maritime stories in Maine history! David Wyman, naval architect and woodworker, will discuss the Penobscot Expedition and the role of the Brig Defence, particularly its sinking, the rediscovery and excavation of the wreck, and the creation of the model now on exhibit at the museum.

The Defence was an American vessel lost during the historic Penobscot Expedition in 1779. To evade British capture, the crew sailed her into Stockton Harbor across Penobscot Bay, set the vessel on fire, and swam ashore. The ship settled into the muddy harbor floor, remaining hidden for nearly two centuries until its rediscovery in 1972. Every summer from 1972 through 1980, divers from Maine Maritime Academy, the Institute of Nautical Archaeology, and the Maine State Museum conducted extensive excavations on the wreck.

Volunteer crew beside finished model in museum

While most of the retrieved artifacts now reside at the Maine State Museum in Augusta, there is a historically significant model of the Defence in the museum’s main gallery uniquely displayed as if it were actively under construction. The ambitious model-building project was spearheaded by David Wyman, who was a firsthand member of the 1970s Defence excavation team. By intentionally building the model to look incomplete—resembling a vessel mid-build in a historic shipyard—Wyman and his volunteer crew have given visitors a rare look at the internal characteristics, framing, and key structural features of 18th-century warships that are completely invisible on finished models. The team was careful to include specific original features uncovered during the excavation of the vessel, and this exhibition at the museum brings the structural history of the vessel directly to the local community. To ensure the history resonates across generations, the museum has also developed engaging activities designed specifically for youth visitors to spark curiosity about this maritime story.

Visit the Defence model in our main gallery through September 30; weekdays from 10 am to 5 pm, and weekends from 2 to 5 pm. All ages are welcome and admission is always free with donations greatly appreciated!