CANADA HISTORY - Places-Forts

Fort Anne

Fort Anne, located on the Bay of Fundy on the west side of Nova Scotia, is one of the most historically significant sites in Canada. It represents the rich and complex history of European settlement, military conflict, and colonial power struggles between the French and English in North America. Initially established by the French, Fort Anne played a central role in the geopolitical chess match that defined the early history of Nova Scotia. The star-shaped fortifications, typical of the Vauban design used in 17th-century military engineering, reflect the strategic importance of this site, which saw many battles and occupations over the centuries. Fort Anne was eventually designated as Canada’s first National Historic Site in 1917, a testament to its enduring significance.

Origins of Fort Anne and Early European Settlement

The site that would become Fort Anne was among the earliest European settlements in what is now Canada. The French, as part of their colonial expansion into North America, established a presence in Nova Scotia (then known as Acadia) in the early 17th century. Acadia was a key region for the French because of its strategic location along the Atlantic seaboard and its access to rich fishing grounds and fertile land.

However, European control over the region was far from stable. In 1629, during a period of conflict between England and France, a group of Scottish settlers led by Sir William Alexander attempted to colonize Nova Scotia on behalf of King Charles I of England. They established Fort Charles, named after the king, at the site. This initial Scottish attempt at colonization was part of a larger scheme by the English crown to claim territory in North America.

Despite the initial success of the Scottish colony, the region reverted back to French control in the 1630s following a series of peace agreements between France and England. The French were determined to solidify their hold on Acadia and sent Charles de Menou d’Aulnay, a prominent figure in the colonial administration, to lead the French efforts in the area. D’Aulnay ordered the construction of the first French fort at the site of Fort Charles, reinforcing the French presence in the region and setting the stage for future conflicts with the English.

The French and English Struggle for Control

As French control over Acadia solidified, the settlement became a focal point of conflict between the French and English, who both sought dominance over North America. D’Aulnay, tasked with defending French interests, expanded the fortifications at the site, recognizing the strategic importance of its location on the Annapolis River, which provided access to the Bay of Fundy and the interior of the colony.

The site underwent several ad hoc improvements and reconstructions over the years, particularly as tensions between the French and English escalated in the early 18th century. The final French fort, built in 1702, was an earthen-work fortification that would become the basis for the current structure of Fort Anne. The star-shaped design of the fort, typical of the Vauban style of military engineering, allowed for overlapping fields of fire, meaning that defenders could fire upon attackers from multiple angles, making it more difficult for enemies to breach the walls.

During this time, the political situation in Europe was also heating up. The War of Spanish Succession (1701-1714) became one of the defining conflicts that would shape the future of Fort Anne. The war was part of a larger struggle between European powers for control of territories and influence across the globe, including in North America. In 1710, as part of the broader conflict, British forces captured the fort from the French. This was a significant victory for the British, as it gave them control over a key stronghold in Acadia.

The Treaty of Utrecht and British Control

The Treaty of Utrecht, signed in 1713, officially ended the War of Spanish Succession and had profound implications for the control of North America. Under the terms of the treaty, France ceded Acadia to Britain, formally establishing British control over the region. The capture of the fort and the subsequent treaty marked the beginning of British dominance in Nova Scotia, although the French retained control over other territories in North America, including Quebec.

Under British rule, the fort, now known as Fort Anne, became the center of British military and civil administration in the region. It served as the headquarters for the British governor and garrison and played a key role in maintaining British authority over the increasingly volatile colony. The British faced numerous challenges in maintaining control over the region, not only from French forces but also from the Acadian population, who largely remained loyal to France, and from the Indigenous Mi'kmaq people, who resisted British encroachment.

In 1749, however, the focus of British military and administrative power shifted to Halifax, a new settlement on the east coast of Nova Scotia. Halifax, with its deep natural harbor and more defensible location, became the primary British stronghold in the region. Although Fort Anne remained in use, its importance diminished, and it gradually became a secondary outpost.

The Expulsion of the Acadians

One of the most controversial and tragic chapters in the history of Fort Anne occurred in 1755 during the British expulsion of the Acadian population, known as the Great Expulsion, or Le Grand Dérangement. The Acadians, descendants of French settlers, had lived in the region for over a century and developed a unique culture. However, their continued loyalty to France and refusal to swear allegiance to the British crown made them a target for the British authorities.

In 1755, the garrison at Fort Anne, following orders from the British government, played a key role in organizing and carrying out the forced deportation of thousands of Acadians from Nova Scotia. Many Acadians were sent to the Thirteen Colonies, the Caribbean, or even back to France, while others fled into the wilderness or sought refuge with Indigenous allies. The expulsion had a devastating impact on the Acadian population and remains a deeply significant event in Canadian history.

Fort Anne in the American Revolution and the War of 1812

During the American Revolution (1775-1783) and the War of 1812 (1812-1815), Fort Anne saw little direct military action. However, it remained an important British outpost, symbolizing British control over Nova Scotia during periods of unrest. By this time, Fort Anne was no longer the center of British military power in the region, as Halifax had taken on that role, but it remained a garrisoned fort with a small detachment of troops.

Following the War of 1812, Fort Anne’s strategic importance continued to decline, and the fort gradually fell into disrepair. By the late 19th century, it was little more than a run-down outpost, its military significance long overshadowed by newer fortifications elsewhere in Nova Scotia.

Fort Anne as Canada’s First National Historic Site

Despite its decline, the historical significance of Fort Anne was not forgotten. In 1917, thanks to the efforts of local residents and historians who recognized the fort’s importance, Fort Anne was designated as Canada’s first National Historic Site. This designation marked the beginning of Canada’s official efforts to preserve its national heritage and ensure that sites of historical importance were protected for future generations.

Today, Fort Anne is a popular destination for visitors interested in Canadian history. The fort’s earthen ramparts, star-shaped design, and historic buildings offer a glimpse into the turbulent colonial past of Nova Scotia. The site’s museum and interpretive exhibits provide detailed information about the history of the fort, the conflicts between the French and English, the Acadian expulsion, and the lives of those who lived and worked at Fort Anne over the centuries.

Fort Anne stands as a monument to the early European settlement of Canada and the centuries of conflict between the French and English for control over Nova Scotia. From its origins as a French colonial fort to its capture by the British during the War of Spanish Succession, Fort Anne played a pivotal role in shaping the history of the region. The fort’s history is also intertwined with the tragic expulsion of the Acadians and the shifting balance of power in North America. As Canada’s first National Historic Site, Fort Anne remains a symbol of the country’s commitment to preserving its rich and complex heritage, offering visitors a chance to connect with a crucial chapter in Canadian history.