Franklin Roosevelt and the Quoddy Tidal-Electric Power Project

US President Franklin Roosevelt proposed to build the world’s largest hydro-electric generating plant—in Maine—using the ocean tides as the source of power. Not only did he propose it—in 1935 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and 5,000 employees began building it.

If that surprises you, then you will want to hear Mark Borton present the fascinating story of the “Quoddy Tidal Power Project,” a tale filled with intrigue and outrage, triumphs and failures. Now nearly forgotten, Quoddy was headline news in the 1930s, thanks to an international cast of famous protagonists, dirty money and politics, fake news, monopoly power and trust-busting, and surprising links to Europe and World War II.

The Herreshoff Marine Museum's Annual Lecture Series features top authors, sailors, historians, and experts, offering insights amidst historic Herreshoff boats and the America’s Cup Hall of Fame.

Lectures are available in-person or virtually on Zoom—be sure to check your ticket type when purchasing. Online sales for in-person tickets close 2 hours before the event, though tickets may still be available at the door unless stated otherwise. Your ticket grants access to the lecture on the specified date and time, either in person or online.

While we aim to provide recordings to ticket holders, availability is not guaranteed. If available, recordings are typically shared 3–5 weeks after the event.

Looking to attend the entire series? The , available exclusively to Museum Members, offers access to every lecture in the lineup. Passholders also enjoy access to all 2025 video recordings, when available.

Tickets are non-refundable but transferable up to one week before the event. No physical tickets are issued; check-in is done by last name upon arrival.

Museum Members enjoy exclusive discounts on lecture tickets. Not a member yet? Join today at herreshoff.org/support and start saving!

The Herreshoff Lecture Series is Proudly Sponsored by: , , , , , , and .

Host or Publisher Herreshoff Marine Museum