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Take a Step back in Time at Old Fort Niagara

posted by Teresa Farrell at 2018-04-12 20:56:00

Located just a few miles away from Niagara Falls  in present-day Youngstown, where the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario, lies one of the oldest pieces of history still standing in New York State Today: Old Fort Niagara. Boasting the oldest continually occupied military site in North America and home to the oldest buildings on the Great Lakes, Old Fort Niagara has been designated a National Historic Landmark, and for good reason.


Old Fort Niagara has a history as long, storied and impressive as the river it’s named for. The location itself played a part in its importance throughout the years, as control of the mouth of the Niagara River was a huge factor in military prowess throughout the early days of America when most battle was done by water. The fort served as a strategic base for three countries--France, Great Britain and the United States--over the course of the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, and the War of 1812.



Today, the fort is open to the public and offers an immersive experience you’re not likely to find at many historic sites. It’s famous for its special events, including war reenactments, especially its annual French and Indian War Encampment that takes place each summer. Even on a normal day, demonstrations abound, so there are plenty of opportunities to watch interpreters dressed in period garb, churning butter, blacksmithing, and more. There is an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the history and archeological aspects of the site.



You can take them all in on a guided tour of the underground rifle galleries, guardhouses, storehouses, and powder magazine, among other stops. The fort also has a visitor’s center that features exhibits filled with original artifacts and an orientation film to give some context to the whole experience. There’s even an original War of 1812 flag on display, a rare treasure you won’t see just anywhere. And, adjacent to the historic site, Fort Niagara State Park  provides a perfect place to camp, picnic, launch a boat, or just relax and enjoy nature when you’re done exploring the fort.



Whether you’re a true history buff or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, you’ll find it at Old Fort Niagara. It’s open year round, and situated with plenty of other things to see and do to make a weekend of it in the Greater Niagara region, so plan on checking it out this season for a step back in time you won’t soon forget.

 

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