Fort George National Historic Site
Fort George National Historic Site, 51 Queen's Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Fort George is a historic military fort located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. It played a significant role in the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain.
Fort George was built by the British Army and completed in 1802. It was constructed to replace Fort Niagara, which the British turned over to the United States in 1796, following the Jay Treaty. The fort was strategically positioned at the mouth of the Niagara River to guard the vital waterway and protect Upper Canada (now Ontario) from American invasion.
During the War of 1812, Fort George played a central role in several battles. It was captured and briefly held by American forces in May 1813 after the Battle of Fort George. However, the British later recaptured the fort in December of the same year after the Battle of Stoney Creek.
Today, Fort George is a National Historic Site of Canada and is operated by Parks Canada. It has been restored to its early 19th-century appearance and serves as a popular tourist attraction and living history museum.
Visitors to Fort George can explore the reconstructed barracks, officers' quarters, blockhouses, and other buildings. Interpretive exhibits and costumed interpreters provide insights into military life during the War of 1812. The site also hosts reenactments, demonstrations, and special events throughout the year.
Fort George is situated within the boundaries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town known for its historic sites, vineyards, and scenic beauty. It overlooks the Niagara River and offers picturesque views of the surrounding area.