Fort Norfolk (Norfolk County, Ontario) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fort Norfolk |
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| Type | War of 1812 fortification |
| Location | Ontario, Canada |
| Nearest city | Norfolk County |
| Built | 1813-14 |
| Governing body | Parks Canada |
| Website | Cultural Built Heritage |
| Designated | 1925 |
Fort Norfolk was a small fort built in Turkey Point, which is now part of Norfolk County, Ontario, Canada. It was built during the War of 1812 to help protect the southwestern part of Upper Canada (an old name for southern Ontario). Today, it is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada.
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What Was Fort Norfolk?
Fort Norfolk was not a very large fort. It was mainly a strong, small fort called a "redoubt." This redoubt had a single blockhouse, which is a sturdy building often made of wood, designed for defense.
Building the Fort
The fort was surrounded by a fence made of logs, known as a palisade. British soldiers from the 37th Regiment of Foot built this fort. They worked on it during the winter of 1814-1815. The fort was meant to house several hundred soldiers.
Plans for a Bigger Fort
There were plans to build a much larger fort at this location. They also thought about adding a facility to build ships there. However, these bigger plans never happened. The small fort was the only part that was actually built.
After the War of 1812
Soon after the War of 1812 ended, Fort Norfolk became less important. It was eventually left empty and no longer used. The fort did not last long as an active military site.
Remembering the Fort
In 1922, a special monument was placed at the site of Fort Norfolk. This monument is called a memorial cairn. It was added to mark the spot where the fort once stood. It helps people remember the fort's history.
