Fort Richelieu facts for kids
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| Established | 1641 |
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| Location | Sorel-Tracy, Quebec, Canada. |
| Official name: Fort Richelieu National Historic Site of Canada | |
| Designated: | 1923 |
Fort Richelieu is an important historic fort located in Quebec, Canada. It is found at the mouth of the Richelieu River, near the city of Sorel-Tracy. This fort is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, meaning it's a special place that helps us remember Canada's past.
Fort Richelieu was one of several forts built along the Richelieu River. These forts were like a chain of protection. Other forts in this series included Fort Chambly, Fort Sainte-Thérèse, and Fort Saint-Jean. There was also Fort Sainte Anne in Vermont, near the river's start. These forts were built to keep travelers safe from the Iroquois people who lived in the area. Because of all these forts, the region is sometimes called "the Valley of the Forts."
Contents
History of Fort Richelieu
Building the First Fort
The first Fort Richelieu was built in 1641. It was located right where the Richelieu River meets the St. Lawrence River, close to what is now Sorel-Tracy. Charles Huault de Montmagny, who was the first Governor of New France, ordered its construction. He named the fort in honor of Cardinal Richelieu, a very powerful minister in France at that time.
The Fort's Challenges and Rebuilding
Sadly, the first fort did not last long. In 1647, the Iroquois burned it down. But the fort was too important to stay gone. In 1665, a group of soldiers called the Carignan-Salières Regiment came to New France. Under the leadership of Pierre de Saurel, they rebuilt the fort in the exact same spot. This new fort helped protect the area for many more years.
Connections and Partnerships
Fort Richelieu is connected to several important organizations. It works with the Canadian Museums Association, which helps museums across Canada. It also partners with the Canadian Heritage Information Network and the Virtual Museum of Canada. These connections help the fort share its history and stories with more people.
More to Explore
- List of French forts in North America
See also
In Spanish: Fort Richelieu para niños
