Fort Miami

Fort Miami was a French military post located where three rivers converged: the St. Joseph, St. Marys, and Maumee. This strategic junction provided excellent conditions for both commerce and military operations in the region.

The French built the first fortified structure in 1722 to control the fur trade routes and maintain a military presence against British expansion. The post remained active until 1763, when its commander was killed during Pontiac's Rebellion, after which the location was abandoned for decades.

The site represents where Native American lands, French colonial ambitions, and British military interests converged during the 1700s. Visitors can sense how these different groups left their marks on this strategic crossroads.

The site offers educational programs and demonstrations about colonial life, military training, and trade activities from the 1700s. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes since the grounds include pathways for exploring the historic location.

The location stood vacant for about 30 years after Pontiac's Rebellion, even though it remained strategically valuable. This prolonged abandonment makes it unusual among French fortifications in the region.

Location: Fort Wayne

Inception: 1715

GPS coordinates: 41.05080,-85.08110

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48