Fort Mackinac And Fort Holmes

Fort Mackinac overlooks the harbor of Mackinac Island.  It is 133 feet above the lake level.  Built by the British in 1779 to replace the old Fort Michilimackinac at Mackinaw City, which was lost to the Indians 6 years earlier.  Fort Mackinac’s function was to protect the British interest in the Northwest Territory from the Americans, who had declared their independence from England.  The British retained possession until after a treaty in 1796, at which time they withdrew to the island of St. Joseph and the United States took command of the fort.  It is now a National Historic Landmark and a museum.  Costumed guides perform military re-enactments.  The era of 1880s have been brought to life by exhibits and performances depicting the American Soldier and family life with rifle and cannon demonstrations.  It served as a sentinel for 115 years.  Fourteen original fort buildings house exhibits.


In the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain, the fort was recaptured by the British, who dragged a cannon to a position now known as Fort Holmes, a high point behind Fort Mackinac. With this cannon in position, surrender came easily, without a battle. The British named the fort Fort George and reinforced it with cannon, a blockhouse, and a magazine for gunpowder and other munitions. After the war the Americans renamed the post in honor of Major Holmes, who was killed during the American assault in 1814.  However, Fort Holmes never functioned as an independent military fortification. It was always a dependent outpost of nearby Fort Mackinac. The American forces made several unsuccessful attempts to regain the fort during the War of 1812.  At the war’s end, American troops did return and took possession in 1815.


I thought the hike to Fort Mackinac was steep but the hike to Fort Holmes was worse.  I think they said it was 147 steps.  The views and the history was well worth the climb.  I took the bike trail back instead of the steps.  

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