Fort Holmes

Fort Holmes sits at the highest point of Mackinac Island, overlooking the straits with earthen fortifications and a reconstructed blockhouse at its center. The site occupies a commanding position that served military purposes for both British and American forces.

British forces built the fortification in 1814 during the War of 1812, calling it Fort George before Americans renamed it to honor Major Andrew Holmes. The site marks a key moment in military control of the Great Lakes region.

The fort exemplifies early 19th-century military engineering principles through its strategic placement and construction methods utilized by both British and American forces.

Visitors can reach this fort via hiking trails from Fort Mackinac, with guided tours available during summer months to learn about its military role. The grounds are accessible on foot, though sturdy footwear is recommended since the paths can be steep.

The fort underwent complete reconstruction twice: once in 1936 through a New Deal program and again in 2015 to match its 1817 appearance. These extensive efforts show how historians work to restore the original form of historic sites.