Fort Henry : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Fort Henry is an impressive historical landmark located in Ontario, Canada. With its unique architecture and military history, it’s no wonder why the site has remained popular since the War of 1812. If you’re in the region, take the time to visit and explore. In this blog, we’ll discuss interesting facts about the fort, the history of its construction and renovation, and offer travel tips for visitors. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to explore an important part of the nation’s past, this blog will help you plan your next visit to Fort Henry.

Interesting Facts About Fort Henry

1. Fort Henry has been around since 1802 when it was constructed by the British as a defensive measure during the Napoleonic War.

2. Fort Henry was deactivated after the War of 1812 and was used as a militia training ground until the mid-1830s.

3. In 1938, the City of Kingston purchased the fort and it was designated as a National Historic Site in 1945.

4. The fort was used as a backdrop for the film “Dawn Patrol” starring Errol Flynn in 1930, and the 1976 TV Movie “The Boy in Blue” starring Christopher Plummer.

5. Fort Henry is home to Canada’s oldest, continuingly used public burial ground—McBurney Park. It was first established in 1784 and is the final resting place of thousands of immigrants and soldiers.

6. Fort Henry is also the site of one of the oldest and largest geological museums in Canada, the Fort Henry Historical Museum.

7. In 2012, the City of Kingston declared Fort Henry an International Landmark of History.

8. Each year, the fort hosts military and ceremonial re-enactments, featuring seasonal storytellers, musicians, and more.

9. In the spring and summer of 2019, a major $30-million, three-year restoration project for the fort began and is now nearly complete.

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History & Information About Fort Henry

Fort Henry is a prominentNational Historic Site located inKingston, Ontario. Constructed in 1832, this historic fort was built on highlands that overlook the entrance to the harbour of Kingston. Fort Henry served as a major defensive fortification for the Royal Navy during the defence of Canada in the War of 1812.

Though the fort was first designed to protect Kingston and its harbour from potential invaders, its strategic military significance grew over the ensuing decades. During the outbreak of World War I, the fort was used as a training outpost for raw recruits of both the Canadian Expeditionary Force and newly-enlisted German-Canadians who were soon to be shipped overseas for service in France.

With the conclusion of World War I, Fort Henry became obsolete and fell into disrepair, resulting in its closure in 1923. Several decades later, interest in the fort was revived and it was declared a National Historic Site in 1951. Today, Fort Henry remains open to visitors and has become an iconic symbol of Kingston’s past and its defence role during the 19th century.

The fort’s military significance is still so potent that it is home to 15 cannons and two original blockhouses, while its strategic location has allowed Fort Henry to become an important tourist attraction for the city of Kingston. Visitors to the fort can explore the military history of Kingston over the past two centuries through a number of educational exhibits and historic tours.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Fort Henry

Fort Henry – Kingston, Ontario is a historically significant Canadian military site and a beautiful destination. The grounds are home to world-famous fortifications, interactive museums, and spectacular views of Lake Ontario. The following travel guide provides the necessary essentials to help visitors explore Fort Henry during their visit.

Getting There:

Fort Henry is located in Kingston, Ontario at 1 Fort Henry Dr. Visitors can drive to Fort Henry, taking advantage of the ample on-site free parking. Additionally, a shuttle service is available for those flying into Kingston Airport and staying in local hotels.

When to Visit:

The busiest season at Fort Henry is the summer (late May–mid October). High season (July and August) sees the largest crowds, in the afternoons, with peak hours being 12pm-3pm. Visitors looking for a quieter day should plan to arrive early in the morning or late in the evening.

What to Do:

The main attraction at Fort Henry is the spectacular military encampment, complete with rare artifacts and interactive displays. The site also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts, battle reenactments, and fireworks displays. In addition, visitors have the chance to explore the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum and the Fort Henry Gift Shop.

Where to Eat:

The Garrison Café and Officer’s Mess are located onsite at Fort Henry. The Café serves a variety of snacks and meals, while the Mess specializes in traditional favourites made fresh. Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy lunch boxes and picnic specials.

Other Tips:

Fort Henry is an expansive site, so it’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable footwear. Additionally, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the grounds can get quite sunny. Finally, visitors should research the visiting hours for the day and plan their trip accordingly.

With its rich history and fantastic attractions, Fort Henry is an unforgettable destination. With the help of this guide, visitors can plan their trip and take full advantage of this incredible Canadian landmark.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Henry

Q: What is Fort Henry?
A: Fort Henry is an historic militray fort located in Kingston, Ontario. Built to defend the Royal Navy Dockyard in Kingston during the War of 1812, the fort has been fully restored and is now operated by Parks Canada as a tourist destination.

Q: What activities are available at Fort Henry?
A: Visitors to Fort Henry can explore the fort’s various rooms and period displays, and take part in military parades, tactical exercises, historical lectures, and other interactive events.

Q: Is Fort Henry open to the public?
A: Yes, Fort Henry is open to the public daily. During the summer season, admission is free, while during the winter season, tickets can be purchased for a nominal fee.

Q: Is Fort Henry wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, Fort Henry is wheelchair accessible. Special tours and activities are available for those with disabilities.

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