The French and Indian War Enactment is one of the most popular Living History events in the United States. Nearly one-thousand performers gather annually at Old Fort Niagara, located on a bluff over Lake Ontario, to re-live the 1759 Siege of Niagara when Britain gained control of the French fort. Re-enactors, in colorful battle uniforms of the era, drill and train, following military commands and coordinating tactics on the field. A color-guard and review, weapons demonstrations with rifles and muskets, skirmishes with native Indian warriors, and a tour of the siege are part of the three-day program. Children participate in special drills and games, and a native Indian council is held for visitors. Sunday church services are conducted as they were in the 18th century.
Old Fort Niagara's history goes back more than three-hundred years. Whoever controlled the fort controlled the entrance to the Niagara River and the Great Lakes. The fort is a unique collection of military buildings, some of the oldest structures in the region, and one of the most visited sites near Niagara Falls. Three flags fly over the grounds at all times, symbolizing the French, British and Americans, the three nations who have held the fort since the early eighteenth century.
The Old Fort Niagara museum is open daily 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; August closing time is 7:00 p.m. Closed on January 1, Thanksgiving Day and December 25. Discounted admission fees apply to children, senior citizens, auto club members, and guests of members of the Old Fort Niagara Association, for whom admission is free. Group rates are available; phone ahead for special group benefits and tours. Souvenirs and books are available at the Museum Shop.
