Fort George National Historic Site

Fort George National Historic Site stands on a rise above the Niagara River at the edge of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, and it is a reconstruction of the main British fort of the Niagara frontier during the War of 1812. Parks Canada manages the site, and its wooden palisades, earthen bastions, blockhouses and low white buildings recreate the look of a military post of the early nineteenth century. The fort sits close to the American shore, with Fort Niagara visible across the water, a reminder of how near the two sides were.

The British built the fort in the late 1790s, after they handed over Fort Niagara to the United States, and it became the headquarters of the army in Upper Canada. Major-General Isaac Brock used it as a base in the early months of the war, and from here he set out to the Battle of Queenston Heights in October 1812, where he was killed. In May 1813, American forces attacked and captured the fort after a fierce bombardment, and they held it for several months before withdrawing that December. The fort was badly damaged, and the ruins were left until the 1930s, when it was reconstructed as a heritage project.

Today, visitors enter through the gate and find a parade ground surrounded by buildings. The officers’ quarters, the guardhouse, the kitchen, the blockhouses and the powder magazine are open to explore, and each shows aspects of life for soldiers, officers and their families. A powder magazine, built apart from the other buildings and made of stone, shows how seriously the army took the danger of explosion. Costumed interpreters in redcoats and period clothing fire muskets and cannons, drill on the square and demonstrate cooking, tailoring and other daily chores, giving a vivid picture of the period. Children can try drills or marching in some programs, and special events and evening tours, including ghost walks, are held in season.

The site is large, with grounds beyond the fort walls, and the setting by the river is pleasant for walking. Navy Hall, an older building near the water, lies close by, and the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, with Queen Street, the Shaw Festival and the wineries, is a short drive or walk. The fort is about twenty minutes from Niagara Falls by car.

Opening times and activities change by season, and programs are most extensive in summer, so check the Parks Canada website for the schedule and admission. Visitors who enjoy history will like it, and the site suits families, history lovers and anyone interested in the War of 1812, and it takes two to three hours to see at a comfortable pace. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, as much of the site is open.