Fort Wayne, nestled within the vibrant city of Detroit, Michigan, boasts a rich history and picturesque location by the Detroit River. 🏰🌆 The fort stands proudly at the foot of Livernois Avenue in the charming Delray neighborhood, offering a glimpse into the past. The original limestone barracks from 1848, complemented by later brick additions, still grace the landscape. Additionally, the renovated 1845 fort with its brick exterior tells tales of bygone eras. 🏞️🛡️
The grounds of Fort Wayne hold treasures both within and beyond its original walls. Barracks, officers' quarters, a theater, a recreation building, and more form a tapestry of historical significance. Even though a large warehouse and the post fire station were lost to time, the fort's spirit perseveres. 🏢
The fort's sprawling 96-acre territory, a combination of city-managed and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated areas, stands as a testament to its legacy. The dedication to its preservation led to its designation as a Michigan State Historic Site in 1958 and its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. 📜
Amidst the passage of time, Fort Wayne has faced the effects of neglect, witnessing the gradual decay of some of its 39 buildings. Grass peeking from rooftops paints a poignant picture. However, the heartbeat of preservation is kept alive by the Historic Fort Wayne Coalition, a group of devoted volunteers who roll up their sleeves to paint, repair, and breathe life back into this historic...
Read moreThe paid for tour is where it is at.
The gentleman who took on the tour was one hell of a historian.
He explained details about its construction that helped you understand the why of certain things.
Sadly the fort is falling apart and in shambles as the city does not value it history.
The group behind the tours is trying to hold it all together, but that requires money the City does not wish to spend
I believe their reasoning for not taking care it is "It is too militant"
Yah no crap its a Fort...Duh...
This could be an awesome place to hold, festivals and reenactments 4th of July and Labor day parties.
Weddings etc etc etc.
The old building could be turned in to restaurants, shops and businesses.
But nah....
It reminds me of St Pete's FL FT Desoto, difference is they take care of that one. and it is a place of...
Read morePretty mellow, historical fort. A few dozen historical buildings in various states of care. Also a Native American Indian burial mound (remains are supposed to be about 900 years old!) Lovely Detroit River views and if you follow the trail that runs along the soccer fields to the water, there is a small grove of trees with some picnic tables.
The fort is operated by both the city of Detroit and the Army and is almost 100 acres. The only reason 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's a shame that so many of the historical buildings are being left to rot instead having basic care to thrive and be utilized by the community.
There is a decent amount of parking here. Be sure to stop at the kiosk on your way in. I'm not sure if there is a cost as I've only come for the youth soccer, but I think all City...
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