Fort Michilimackinac was built in 1715 to police and secure the vital and ever-increasing trade goods that were passing through the straits. The fort replaced and earlier French fort across the straits at St. Ignace which dated back to 1690. Michilimackinac stood for 60 years at this location and was expanded and renovated several times under both French and British control. The only battle to take place here occurred in 1763 when a small band of native Americans infiltrated and captured the fort during a regional uprising known as Pontiac's Rebellion. During the American Revolution the British felt the fort was indefensible at its current location and proceeded to move many of the structures to a new fort on Mackinac Island. The relocation took place between 1779-81 and, after taking what was necessary the British burned what remained to prevent enemy capture.

This is a photo journal of what I consider to be one of Michigan's most interesting historic landmarks, enjoy!!

5-27-2010