Built in 1812 by the British army troops for the War of 1812, Fort Holmes is basically a fortified redoubt situated on the highest point of Mackinac Island. This fortification played a role in Britain?s maintenance of the site from 1812 to 1814, as it aided in the defense of Fort Mackinac from the attacks that the US Army occasionally does on the site.
Originally named by the British as Fort George, Fort Holmes was once equipped with a blockhouse, a canon, and a series other munitions. It was renamed as Fort Homes when the site was taken over by the American Troops in 1815. The fort was named after Major Andrew Holmes, who was one of the casualties in the 1814 Battle of Mackinac Island.
Today, only a few ruins of Fort Holmes can be found on Mackinac Island. However, it is still a popular spot for tourists, as it has the best view of the Straits of Mackinac.
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