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AUGUSTA

Ex-staffer picked to run Old Fort Western

She worked there from 1998 to 2005

By Keith Edwards kedwards@centralmaine.com
Staff Writer

AUGUSTA -- Old Fort Western is nothing new to Linda Novak, the nominee to become its new director and curator.

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Linda Novak will be the new director/curator for Old Fort Western in Augusta.

Staff file photo by Joe Phelan

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Novak, who holds a master's degree in anthropology, worked at Old Fort Western from 1998 to 2005 as its archaeologist and office and information coordinator. Since then, she's worked right next door to the historic landmark, at Augusta City Center, as administrative assistant in the city's development services department.

One of her first major archaeological excavations occurred in 1983 -- right there at the fort, in a major dig that revealed the precise locations of the original watchtowers, blockhouses and palisades.

"My life has come full circle. I'm so excited," Novak said. "I've got some pretty big shoes to fill. I look forward to the challenge with humility and anticipation."

She starts on the job Monday in an acting director's role. Her formal appointment to the permanent post goes to the Augusta City Council for their consideration Sept. 2.

She is the unanimous choice of a selection committee and the Old Fort Western Board of Trustees, and the nomination of City Manager William Bridgeo.

Bridgeo said councilors' informal reaction to his appointment of her has been positive.

"I'm doing this with enthusiasm and the confidence that she is a terrific fit for this important city position," Bridgeo said. "We're fortunate Linda has come forward. I'm well acquainted with Linda and am impressed by her as a person and a professional."

She will take a spot vacated by Jay Adams, who stepped down last year to become executive director of Viles Arboretum. Adams served 23 years at the 256-year-old fort. Before Adams, Jeff Zimmerman was the director.

Novak credited both with giving life to the history of the fort.

"My thanks to both of them for leaving a solid foundation to grow and advance the fort's mission to preserve, protect and educate," Novak said.

Davey Crockett, chairman of the Old Fort Western Board of Trustees, said Novak's background, education and enthusiasm indicate she is up to the task of taking control of the fort.

He is pleased Bridgeo appointed Novak to start as acting director Monday, rather than waiting, so the fort, and its educational programs, can be prepared for the upcoming school season.

Novak will be paid a salary of about $42,000 a year, Bridgeo said.

Novak has worked previously for Colonial Williamsburg, the James River Institute for Archaeology, and Colonial National Historic Park, all in Virginia. She holds a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Maine at Orono, and a master's in anthropology, with a specialty in historic archaeology, from the College of William and Mary.

Old Fort Western, built in 1754 and a National Historic Landmark, is New England's oldest surviving wooden fort, according to its website.

James Howard's company garrisoned the fort and guarded the head of navigation on the Kennebec in the 1750s and 1760s. Benedict Arnold used the fort site as a staging point for his assault on Quebec during the American Revolution.

Keith Edwards -- 621-5647

kedwards@centralmaine.com