subject: Fort Mackinac, A Fort Out Of Time [print this page] From the time we stepped off the high speed catamaran onto Mackinac Island, Michigan we found ourselves entering a Victorian time era. A town which time and motor vehicles have passed by.
Walking through part of the town, on our way to Fort Mackinac we enjoyed the Victorian storefronts and the delightful scent of the famous Mackinac Island fudge wafting from the many storefronts along Huron Street.
Fort Mackinac was started in 1780 by the British, located on the southern bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. The panoramic view from the fort is spectacular. History buffs would find it quite fascinating. And those that aren't as interested in history (like me) will find it very enjoyable. There is much to see and touch. Upon entering we found interactive displays and period furnishings within the 14 original buildings.
Kids and adults of all ages are excited to observe the cannon firing demonstrations. Some are eager to volunteer to help prepare the cannon for the firing recreation. Once each phase of preparing the cannon for firing is explained everyone shouts "Ready, Aim, Fire!" Be prepared for the loud bang as the historic interpreters dressed in 1880's American soldier uniforms fire over the Straits of Mackinac. These demonstrations are presented throughout the day so everyone has a chance to experience it.
A little while later as we were coming out of the jail house we noticed a stir in the court yard. A court martial reenactment was taking place. We listened to witnesses, then the defense, and just as in today's courts the judge made the final decision. I overheard a cute little girl asking her parents "where are all the bad guys?" Because everything seemed so real to her she was expecting to see them.
After coming out of the soldiers' recreation area we heard music. They were teaching about the music from the 1880s. Dressed in period attire they performed music of that era. After the demonstration was over they encouraged all who were willing to learn to participate in the Victorian Rose Dance.
Walking out of the Soldiers' Barracks we observed a rifle firing demonstration. Again men costumed in 1880's American soldier attire explained their uniforms and rifles. Telling us about the different parts and how and why they were used or worn. After the rifle firing questions were asked and if we wanted we could hold the rifle.
Something is going on all the time, and the way they have it scheduled no one misses a thing. It's a great place to go if you like to touch and feel. There are clothes provided for kids to try on to get a real feel of what it must have been like for the children of that era.
Fun appears to come around every corner of this wonderful place that makes history become more real.
