CAMDEN — Probably best known for the lighted star visible each holiday season throughout Midcoast Maine and Penobscot Bay, the World War I memorial tower on Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park is visited by thousands of tourists and Mainers every year. Constructed in 1920 the Tower has weathered numerous storms and harsh winters along the coast.

These many years have taken their toll on the structure, leaving it in need of restoration. The volunteer-based Friends of Mt. Battie has established a restoration plan and fundraising campaign to bring the tower back to its original condition.

The Save the Tower fund goal is to raise $100,000 by June 1 in order to make immediate repairs to the tower, as well as establishing a legacy fund to finance future repairs and maintenance.

The tower was constructed and dedicated as a monument to World War I veterans and their families on the home front. Visitors to Camden Hills State Park have a scenic ride or walk up the mountain and are greeted with a view of Penobscot Bay.

The Mt. Battie star has been lit every holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Years Day since 1966. It is erected and maintained by local volunteers and with the help of generous donations from businesses and townspeople. The illuminated star is visible from all the islands in the bay and can be seen as far away as Mount Desert Island.

The Town of Camden is managing the Save the Tower funds. 

Checks can be addressed to Town of Camden, with “Save the Tower Fund” in the memo line. 

Town of Camden, 29 Elm St., P.O. Box 1207, Camden, Maine 04843.

A community facebook page has been started at www.facebook.com/savethemtbattietower.

For more information, contact Randy Stearns at (207) 975-1479.