Fort Wellington was built during the War of 1812 to defend the St. Lawrence River shipping route between Montreal and Kingston from possible attack by the United States. It was called into service again in 1838 when invasion from the United States was once more imminent. The fort continued to be used for military purposes, with occasional periods of abandonment, until it was transferred to the Department of the Interior in 1923 to be opened to the public as an historic site.
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Fort Kids Day Camp 2011
Every Tuesday from July 13th to August 17th, children ages 7-12 are invited to make history come alive as they travel back in time to the year 1840 when the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment and their families occupied the Fort.
Each day is a new adventure as various fort themes are explored through hands-on activities.
Here is a list of the various theme days that will take place in 2011
July 12 - Soldiers Day: Enlist and learn about military life at Fort Wellington. Children will take part in a mock battle, military drill, and watch a rifle demonstration.
July 19 – Daily Life: Travel back in time and experience life in the 1840’s. Participants get a taste of daily routine through period dress, snacks and activities.
July 26 – Cooking Day: Treat your taste buds to traditional recipes cooked over an open fire. Participants help prepare an historic meal and sweet treats to take home.
August 2 – Pirates Day: Aarr matey! Learn your pirate lingo and how pirates were involved in this Fort’s History. Now where is me buried treasure?
August 9 – Navy Day: Become a navy sailor and build a small gunboat. Learn about Prescott’s nautical past.
August 16 – Games Day: Your chance to master period games like tug-o-war, three legged races and lacrosse. You may also have to test your mind in the classroom.
Each session runs from 10:30am to 3:30pm. Space is limited to 30 participants per day. A $12.00 registration fee applies for each session. Please register as soon as possible as spots fill quickly.
For more information and to register please contact Emily Sine or Leslie MacPherson between 10:00am and 5:00pm at (613) 925-2896
Battle of the Windmill
During a four-day period in November, 1838 British troops and local militia defeated an invasion force of 300 American " Hunters " and Canadian rebels. The Battle of the Windmill victory prevented the invasion force from capturing Fort Wellington, Ontario, and cutting the St. Lawrence communications link, which would have left Upper Canada open to invasion.
