Statement of Significance (as of designation - February 16, 2000):
The Kennebec Arsenal is the most intact early nineteenth century munitions depot in the United States. Built between 1828-1838, the complex of eight granite buildings occupies a commanding location on the east bank of the Kennebec River. The size of this facility was directly related to the Northeast Boundary Controversy, a border dispute which lasted from 1820-1842 and almost led to a third war with Great Britian. The property is also nationally significant as the best surviving example of an early nineteenth century military complex of this type.

The Arsenal received a 2004 Save America's Treasures matching grant in the amount of $295,000 to be used to repair the deteriorated granite retaining wall that stabilizes the site’s Kennebec River boundary and restore damage to the cast iron and granite fence surrounding the rest of the 41-acre site.