FORT MACKINAC

As our ferry arrives in Mackinac Island Harbor everyone can immediately see the fort guarding the town and the navigable narrow strait between the island and the smaller Round Island to the South.

This fort was built by the British in the 1760's to control the boat traffic through the Mackinaw Straits. Before that time this whole area was claimed by the French, and you can still see many French names in this area, like Sault (rapids) Ste. Marie 50 miles North.

Here is an old painting of the same side of the island. Notice how the painting shows a lot of browns. Todays island is all green and densely forested. In those days trees were scarcer because they provided the material for houses, boats, and firewood. Naturally, the island trees would go first.



Here is another view of the Fort where you can see the downstairs and ramp descending the side of the rock wall facing the port town below. At the level of the fort there are exclusive homes built by wealthy people a long time ago. The first American millionaire, Astor, lived here. He made his millions by controlling the fur trade.

Down below the fort is Pere Marquete's park - full of fragrant lilacs. Father Marquette was the first European to explore these island and shores. He did it with a small expedition in CANOES!

This is the central courtyard in the fort. They hold re-enactment events in the costumers of the period.

The actors re-enacted the firing of one of the fort's canons.

Cleaning the barrel of debris from previous firings.

A British Sea Service pistol of the time.

Hand built birch bark canoe. This was the transportation means of choice for Ojbwe and Ottawa indians of the area, and later for the early French explorers. Notice the wooden rib construction.

This is an actual pair of leather indian moccassins.

View of Marquette Park and the port town below from the wall of the fort.