The Old Fort will enter Phase II of its restoration project. Photo courtesy of Fort Wayne Parks.

News Releases

FORT WAYNE — Phase II of The Old Fort Restoration Project will begin Monday, Dec. 2, on the Doctor’s Quarters and Hospital.

A crew from Hart Log Homes LLC will begin demolition of the building. The new timbers will arrive Wednesday, Dec. 4.

Due to the timbers and heavy equipment that will be on the parade grounds, it will not be safe to host an event and receive visitors.

Fort Wayne Parks is working hard at preserving and maintaining the Old Fort so it can continue to bring history alive in Fort Wayne for years to come.

The fort, constructed by Major John Whistler and his men during 1815-1816, was the last of three American forts to stand at the junction of the St. Mary’s, St. Joseph, and Maumee Rivers. It was designed to be easily defended against a Native American attack by a garrison of only 50 to 75 men. With two lines of pickets, heavy gates, and well-placed blockhouses, it was impossible to penetrate. This fort was by far the most sophisticated and carefully designed all-wooden fort ever built in North America. It was not fear of the Native Americans, but rather the rapid westward movement of the frontier that caused Fort Wayne to be abandoned after only three years of use. It was decommissioned April 19, 1819.  The Old Fort is a faithful copy of the post built by American troops under the command of Major John Whistler.

A Capital Campaign is currently in progress. Historic Fort Wayne, Inc. does not receive state or federal funding but relies on generous donations from members of the community. Visit oldfortwayne.org to donate.