History lessons from Forts: Fort Malden and Fort George

Fort Malden, Amherstburg

Last summer and in separate trips, we checked out Forts Malden and George. In Amherstburg, we went to Fort Malden. Fort Malden was built in 1795 by Britain to ensure the security of British North America against any American invasion. Although it was smaller, the tours we got were more personal. 

museum @Fort Malden, Amherstburg

museum @Fort Malden, Amherstburg

As it was situated by the lake, it was also more relaxing--like being in a cottage but instead seeing barracks.

barracks @Fort Malden, Amherstburg

We saw the pensioner’s cottage, the museum, and at the barracks, we saw a musket demonstration. 

musket demonstration @Fort Malden, Amherstburg

We also got a treat and were able to see the officer’s room, which was initially locked. 

officer's room Fort Malden, Amherstburg

The last stop was the kitchens where they sometimes offer soldier’s stew. It was a great learning experience!

kitchens @Fort Malden, Amherstburg

Located at Niagara-on-the-Lake Fort George was the scene of several battles during the War of 1812.  It was much bigger and had more buildings and activities than Fort Malden. 

Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

We got some shillings from the visitor centre to enter the fort.  Apart from barracks, they had the officer’s room and its kitchen, the original Powder magazine building (the oldest military building in Ontario!), artificer’s shop, and others.  

artillery during 1812 @Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

barracks @Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

preparing for the demonstrations @Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

We learned so much about the War of 1812 and the different side stories as well. We got to try some cookies from the Officer’s Kitchen, witnessed a musket demonstration (with more than one “soldier” this time), saw the demonstration of the Fife and Drum corps, and the lowering of the flag. 

Junior officer's room @Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

demonstrations @Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake

A lot of things to do and see, indeed! After all those history lessons, you can head out to wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake.  Certainly a wonderful day trip from Toronto.