In 2007, several local graduates of the University of Maine Master Gardener program were discussing their love of Fort Williams and their concern for its future. Equipped with knowledge and expertise on the Fort’s invasive plant crisis, they developed a detailed business plan for this critically important environmental project and presented it to the Cape Elizabeth community decision makers. After several years of discussion and debate, this idea has gone from a few people’s brainstorm to a viable project under the auspices of the Fort Williams Charitable Foundation (FWCF).

We are a diverse group of volunteers, organized to create an arboretum as a means for restoring, enhancing and preserving the historic Fort Williams Park, home of the Portland Head Light on the beautifully rugged coastline of Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The project’s volunteer steering committee is a diverse and impressive team of experts. In addition to a group of master gardeners and a renowned educator and horticulturist, there are several executives with extensive business experience, landscape architects, contractors, community leaders and local business owners. The committee represents a cross section of many communities in Southern Maine and throughout New England. All share a love of Fort Williams and are committed to implementing the project for the enjoyment of Cape Elizabeth residents and visitors.