 Some think it may have been built by John Defoe (or DeVoet), a Tory who was imprisoned in 1776, escaped, fought on the side of the British and Hessian forces at the Battle of Bennington, was captured, escaped again, and settled in Canada.Others believe the Mooar-Wright house was built by Charles Wright in 1765.Pownal citizens have long prided themselves on their independent spirit.