Thomas Jefferson's prediction that an invasion of Canada would be "a mere matter of marching" underestimated the strength of the British fortifications on the St. Lawrence River and the determination of the British Army, Canadian militia and their native allies. Built during the War of 1812 to defend the St. Lawrence Frontier, Fort Wellington was used by British soldiers and Canadian militiamen until 1923. Over 110 years, they were called out to face American threats in 1813, 1838 and 1866. Even though for most of the 19th century the St. Lawrence was a peaceful frontier, men-at-arms made their home at Fort Wellington — just in case. Today, visitors to the site will see what life was like at a British fort in the mid-1840s. There are furnished period rooms and costumed guides who provide historical interpretation.
Fort Wellington National Historic Site
P.O. Box 479
Prescott, Ontario
Canada
K0E 1T0
613-925-2896