First built by the British in 1755, Fort Ontario has stood as a guardian to the Oswego River mouth for nearly 250 years. Shifting between being a British outpost to a United States holding many times.

Surviving siege and battle over the centuries has brought changes to the fort. Today you can see it as it is being restored to its 1867-1872 appearance. Costumed interpreters recreate the lives of the officers, men, and civilians at Fort Ontario between May 1868 and April 1869. During this period the fort was garrisoned by Company F, 42nd Infantry Regiment, Veterans Reserve Corps. The papers of First Lieutenant Michael J.Hogarty, the second in command of Company F, have provided valuable insight into the daily lives of the fort’s residences

Today Fort Ontario is the site of many community events from historic reenactments to kite flying days to a Harborfest fireworks vantage point. Be sure to visit the fort and take a small piece of Oswego history home with you.