Fort Sainte-Marie-de-Grâce facts for kids
Fort Sainte-Marie-de-Grâce was once a very important place in the history of Acadia. From 1632 to 1636, it served as the capital city of this early French colony. Today, the area where the fort stood is a special place called a national historic site. You can find it in LaHave, Nova Scotia, Canada. This historic spot is now known as the Fort Point Museum.
Contents
The Fort's Beginning
Why a New Capital?
After a peace agreement called the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye was signed in 1632, the French and English settled some differences. This treaty allowed France to get Acadia back. The French governor, Isaac de Razilly, then returned to Acadia. He decided to move the capital from Port Royal, Nova Scotia, to a new location in LaHave. This is where he built Fort Sainte-Marie-de-Grâce.
Building the Fort
Governor Razilly chose LaHave because it was a good spot for a fort. It offered protection and access to the sea. The fort was built to help the French control the area and protect their interests in Acadia. It was a busy place for a few years, serving as the main center for the colony.
The Fort's End
Abandonment and Destruction
Sadly, the fort's time as a capital was short. Governor Razilly passed away in 1636. After his death, the fort was no longer needed as the capital. It was abandoned, meaning people stopped living and working there. Later, in the 1650s, the fort was destroyed by a fire.
Fort Point Today
A National Historic Site
Even though the fort is gone, its history is remembered. The site was officially recognized as a historic place on June 4, 1924. Over many years, the land where the fort once stood has worn away due to nature. However, a special stone monument, called a cairn, is placed nearby. This cairn helps people remember the important fort that once stood there. The Fort Point Museum now helps tell the story of this significant part of Acadian history.
