WE learned that the fort, which was built in 1840 because the threat of a territorial war still loomed with British Canada, never saw any combat but became a primary induction center for Michigan troops entering battle in every U. S. conflicts from the Civil War to Viet Nam. It also housed WW II Italian prisoners of war.
For the Civil War days program, the fort, and some of the support buildings were open for tours. There was also an encampment and re-enactment of life during the days of the Civil War and a historic base ball (yes, two words) game between the Wyandotte Stars and the Early Risers where Abraham Lincoln threw out the first pitch.
We also discovered a couple of other interesting facts about the fort. Rumor has it that it is haunted and ghost tours are available (humm?) and that there is also an ancient Indian burial mound on the grounds.
I was a little disappointed to learn that while the city collects 5.00 for parking for each car (in a run down parking lot), the Fort Wayne coalition which is responsible for the upkeep, and restoration of the fort gets none of it at all.
We really enjoyed our visit there, and will keep an eye on their website and upcoming events with plans to go back again soon.
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