Fort Wayne

6325 W. Jefferson
Detroit, MI 48207
Phone: (313) 224-6385
TTY: 311 or (313) 224-INFO (4636)

Historic Fort Wayne was built in 1845 as a new artillery post to serve the United States in future attacks by British Canada. Throughout its more than 160-year history, however, the Fort has largely been a peaceful location, serving as an infantry garrison and a primary induction point for Michigan troops entering every U.S. conflict from the Civil War through the Vietnam War. The Fort is currently owned and operated by the City of Detroit. Every summer, the City’s Department of Parks and Recreation hosts historic re-enactments, special events and outdoor activities for visitors.

For more information about Historic Fort Wayne and current activities, please contact (313) 224-6385.

Historic Fort Wayne 2008 Season
Open Weekends April 14 – October 28
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday
Parking $5
General Admission $3 per person
Tours $7 (Includes General Admission)
Advanced Booking Required

For tours of The National Museum Of The Tuskegee Airmen, please Call (313) 843-8849.

For group tour information, please call Edie Worthy at (313) 224-1117.

Important Information
We hope you enjoy your visit and ask that you honor the following during your visit:

• At least one adult should accompany children on the Fort grounds.
• NO pets; Service animals are welcome.
  
• All visitors must wear shirts and shoes.
  
• DO NOT ENTER or approach any building unless accompanied by a museum guide.
  
• NO metal detectors, digging and taking of artifacts.
  
• Picnicking is allowed, but NO barbecues, fires, or alcoholic beverages.
  
• Please place trash and litter in proper receptacles.
  
• NO fishing or swimming is permitted.
  
• The shoreline is a hazardous area, please stay 15 ft. from the river’s edge.
  
• Do not climb on anything or enter fenced off areas.
  
• Visitors are asked to report any vandalism observed to the Fort Staff; visitors will be held responsible for any damage they cause.

1. THE STAR FORT – Build in the 1840’s as a part of the chain of defenses along the northern border of the United States. By 1849, the British threat diminished and the US Army mothballed the fort until the demands of the Civil war required a recruiting and training station for Michigan troops. Over the next century the Fort became an increasingly significant supply depot for the Army. In 1948 the Army began to decommission Fort Wayne and the Army transferred it to the City of Detroit. Open to the public on the guided tours.  

2. NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER’S ROW & HOSPITAL – You will notice the condition of the Post Hospital (across from the Star Fort) and the NCO Row (along the W. Jefferson St. green), are in poor condition due to a long period of decline. The Detroit Historical Museums and Society hope to rejuvenate the fort and surrounding areas beginning with an extensive preservation and restoration plan.   

3. SPANISH AMERICAN WAR GUARD HOUSE – Built in 1889, it provides a glimpse of the fort’s security and corrections system. Restored in 1984, it once again features bunks, cells, and exercise yard. Open to the public on the guided tours.  

4. PARADE GROUND AND RIVERFRONT – Along the river lies the parade ground. Once the site of Army drilling, camping, and storage, today community events and re-enactments make for enjoyable use of the spacious grounds. This being the narrowest point on the Detroit River, it offers a great view of Canada.  

5. COMMANDING OFFICER’S QUARTERS - Restored in the 1980s to its 1890s appearance, this handsome cottage on the Commanding officers row features period furnishings. Open to the public on the guided tours.  

6. INDIAN MOUND – This mound, a burial site, demonstrates over 900 years of local Native American history. 

P – Parking Lot