What Makes Amherstburg Great: Fort Malden
- July 30, 2026
Guest Content Creator: River Bookshop
Today Amherstburg is one of Ontario’s great small towns, but greatness doesn’t happen on its own. Nature, history, and human actions always play a part. Amherstburg’s location right beside the Detroit River originally made it an important place and adds to its beauty to this day. From the War of 1812, to Freedom seekers escaping slavery in the United States, and Rum Running – history has left its mark! But so have the creativity, hard work, and enthusiasm of its residents.
During 2026 we are going to shine a light on what we think makes Amherstburg great. Our hope is that this new series helps you get to know the town better, support its many businesses and attractions, and become a strong, positive champion of the town. Look for our first story in our next Buzz.
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Old forts stand as silent sentinels of history, blending the harshness of war with the romance of the past
Fort Malden is probably the anchor of Amherstburg’s history. Constructed in 1796 as Fort Amherstburg, it predates most of Amherstburg’s heritage buildings.
And its impact reaches other WMAG examples like Christ Church and Belle Vue (look for its post on October 14).
Some interesting facts about Fort Malden:
- Served as the British stronghold on the Detroit frontier during the War of 1812 and later the Rebellion of 1837-38.
- Location of an historic meeting between Major Sir Issac Brook and Shawnee Chief Tecumseh (look for a WMAG story on Tecumseh and our Indigenous history September 23rd).
- To prevent the fort from falling in the hands of the Americans, it was burned down by the British in 1813.
- It was also the Americans’ longest occupation of Canadian land during the war.
The “imposing structures of war” are now long gone, but there is still so much to see and learn about Amherstburg’s and Canada’s history. Original artifacts, costumed interpreters, interactive activities for visitors, plus books, toys, and t-shirts. It is also the location of the very popular Art by the River event (look for a post WMAG on August 26). The timing is right to shine a light on Fort Malden as the town celebrates its Living History Festival: experience live cooking demonstrations, musical performances, featured talks, and historic weapons demonstrations that will blow you away. (Keep reading below for more details.) WOW – all this makes Amherstburg the place to be this weekend!