Perched atop limestone bluffs, Fort Mackinac was built by the British in 1780 to control the Straits of Mackinac and the fur trade routes. It remained under British control until 1796, even after the American Revolutionary War ended. The area around the fort saw several battles between the British, French, and Americans, especially during the War of 1812.

Throughout the 19th century, Fort Mackinac served various military purposes, including as a Civil War prison for three Confederate soldiers. Rather than endure the harsh winter, these soldiers signed oaths of loyalty to the Union. At other times, the fort functioned as a fur trading post. In 1875, it became part of Mackinac National Park, the second national park in the U.S., and was decommissioned in 1895, transitioning to Mackinac Island State Park.

Today, Fort Mackinac operates as a museum with 14 historic buildings, where costumed interpreters bring history to life for visitors. Its strategic placement and robust architecture make it a key historical site on Mackinac Island.

Extra Series Information: Fort Mackinac is part of a series of artworks capturing Michigan’s rich historical and cultural heritage. These pieces, available as matted giclée prints and notecards, are created by artist Maggie LaNoue and serve as a beautiful reminder of Michigan’s storied past.

Fort Mackinac – catalog #03