Learn about the military importance of Mackinac Island.
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Mackinac Island is described as lodged like a cork between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. This strategic position surrounded by water made it militarily important. In 1780, Chippewa Chief Kitche Negon sold the Island to the British and they built a fort here.
The three blockhouses in the corners of the fort tell of the importance of this fort and that even if the greater walls were breached the soldiers were expected to retreat to these blockhouses and fight to the last man.
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The British were of course defending against those troublesome American revolutionaries. The fort was ultimately ceded to the U.S. in 1796 by treaty.
When the War of 1812 broke out, the British wanted to retake the fort. The island is relatively small being just 3 miles or 5 kilometers by 2 miles or 3 kilometers. Although risky, their only option was to go overland from the north of the island. The British were successful in taking the fort with surprise and overwhelming numbers on their side. The fort was again ceded back to the Americans at the end of the war.
Today, there are a number of interpretive guides in period clothing including soldiers of the American 23rd Regiment. Once you meet these wily characters, you might agree with the British.
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