The Sebago Basin
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The Sebago Basin

The Sebago Basin is the entrance to the dug canal. The Basin is a small finger of water off the south eastern end of Big Sebago Lake. This location was chosen for it's depth and flow of water. An adequate supply of water was needed to maintain an even depth through the canal. Although the Presumpcot was used at several locations to supply water, the Basin was the primary scource. When the basin was first considered, there was some concern that the taking of water for the canal would lower the level of the river, which was used for floating of timber to Westbrook. In the end, the dam installed at the head of the river actually served to increase the level in the water.

Wescott Lock

The Wescott Lock, also known as the Guard Lock, was the first lock and entry point to the canal. It brought the boats from the level of the lake, which would vary with season, to the constant level of the canal. It was one of two locks constructed of cut stone. The other being the guard lock at Portland.
All other locks were made of wood and as such, only the stone backing has survived. Although somewhat obscured by brush on its lower side, the outer abutment is plainly visible. On the upper side, the dimensions of the lock are easy to discern. The locks were narrow, usually less that 11 feet. This was due to the boats only being 10" to 10'6" wide. They were built small to save money.
From here, the boats traveled a short distance to the Eel Wier lock, located about where the Route 35 bridge is now sited. It should be noted that the width and depth of the canal from the Basin to the Eel Wier Powerstation was increased when the power station was built. This was done to increase flow to the station.

Directions to the Wescott Lock
The Basin and Wescott Lock are on private property. It is owned by Sappi Incorporated. The road to the site is gated. It is just off Route 35. Permission must be obtained to enter the site.