THUNDER BAY – Fort William Historical Park has thrown open the gates to the public for tours and will be holding a variety of events this summer.
Everyone is welcome to take guided tours, and experience history at Fort William Historical Park, according to David Shepherd, interpretive specialist.
“We're living 1815 as it was today. So, you’re going over to the tinsmith, being able to make tin lanterns, seeing our cooper making many different barrels, all the way to foraging over on the farm with all our different animals. And learning about the unique place in history that Fort William holds,” he said.
The guided tours run at the park seven days a week, roughly every 45 minutes, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Guided tours are approximately an hour and a half long according to Shepherd.
"We hope people come down and have a chance to experience history with our wonderful staff," he said.
"Everyone's been working hard and we're looking forward to share history with everybody."
Fort William Historical Park has a number of additional events being held within its walls this summer.
A big Canada Day event will be held on July first, where everyone has a chance to come out and experience bringing history to life.
On July 12, 13 and 14 the park will host The Great Rendezvous, where hundreds of re-enactors from across North-America converge to re-create the annual summer gathering. This gathering was held at Fort William over 200 years ago- when it was the inland headquarters of the North West Company.
The historic re-enactment will include artisan workshops and demonstrations, contests and a grand canoe arrival.
Anishinaabe Keeshigun will run from Aug. 17 to 18. This event is a free weekend, filled with entertainment and hands-on activities. The demonstrations will highlight Anishinaabe culture, traditions, language, and technology.
This year’s event will also include a pow wow showcasing regional dancers and drum groups as well as a community feast.
The park will also be hosting Celtic Day, which will include a celebration of culture, music, dance, hands-on activities, and great food. It will feature local pipe and drum bands, Highland dancers, and more.
To find more details on these events, visit Fort William Historical Park’s website. You can also purchase tickets for tours or events online.
