Historic Fort Wayne is Detroit's “hidden historical gem.” While some believe that some of the first shots of the War of 1812 were fired near there, we do know with certainty that the Treaty of Springwells was signed on September 8, 1815 at the site of Fort Wayne, Detroit. This treaty ended the war between the United States and a confederation of Native Americans that included the Wyandot, Delaware, Seneca, Shawnee, Miami, Chippewa, Ottawa, and Potawatomi nations. Fort Wayne was used as a camp of instruction for every major US conflict, including the Civil War; World Wars I and II; Korea, and Vietnam. Thousands of soldiers shipped out for Vietnam from Fort Wayne. Italian POWs were held there during World War II. Fort Wayne was a major hub of the “Arsenal of Democracy” that contributed to the Allied victory in World War II.

For several years in the 1990s, Fort Wayne was an “orphan.” Buildings and grounds were allowed to fall into disrepair. In more recent years, a dedicated group of volunteers – the Historic Fort Wayne Coalition – has done much hard work to give the Fort some TLC.

But, like many other events this year, the five major fundraisers on which the Coalition relies were canceled because of Coronavirus concerns. This has put the Coalition in a difficult financial situation.

Here's where we can help! For $20 per individual ($35 for a family) for an entire year, each of us can consider becoming a member of the Historic Fort Wayne Coalition. Your membership dues will go directly to supporting the Fort but they will also give you access to the Fort for all events. Fort Wayne is a perfect spot for watching the Freedom Festival fireworks or seeing the lake freighters pass down the Detroit River.

The 24th Michigan may also have the ability to use Fort Wayne for a weekend event; our annual social; our “work on your impression” Saturdays; and other events.

You can read more about the Fort, the Coalition, and opportunities to help out on the Fort’s website.

Your obedient servant,

Guy Purdue