Overview:

Fort Calgary - Calgary, Alberta in Canada is a historical site that serves as the birthplace to the city of Calgary. Founded in 1875 as the North West Mounted Police fort, Fort Calgary began as a fort to protect the West from US whisky traders and the reserve from northern Indigenous people. The fort became a museum in 1975 and has since become an important part of Calgary's history and identity. It is a living monument to the city’s past, present, and future. Visitors to the Fort Calgary can participate in numerous programs, tours, events, and exhibitions to learn more about the history and culture of this unique part of Canada. Visitors can explore the outdoor grounds, the Fort Calgary dungeon, and the recreated Blackfoot encampment, as well as partake in activities such as interactive archeological digs, blacksmithing classes, and historical tours. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Canada
Prominent Features:

1. Historical significance: Fort Calgary is the oldest standing fort in the city of Calgary, Alberta. Built in 1875-1876 by the Northwest Mounted Police, it has been a hub of activity for over 140 years and is still a popular destination in the city today. 2. Open spaces: Fort Calgary has over 18 acres of open, green space where visitors can explore trails, walk around the historic buildings, and appreciate nature. 3. Visitor Centre: The Visitor Centre at Fort Calgary features interactive and educational exhibits, photos, and artifacts that tell the story of the fort’s history and the development of Calgary over the years. 4. Livestock Barns, Stables & Granaries: A unique feature of Fort Calgary are the remains of the original livestock barns, stables and granaries. Refurbished and preserved, these structures are open to the public and offer insight into the past. 5. Theater in the Grassy Park: The theater in the Grassy Park at Fort Calgary is a historic site which hosts live theatrical performances and other public events throughout the year. 6. Interpretive Programs: The fort offers a variety of interpretive programs, such as guided hikes, demonstrations, and crafts for both children and adults. 7. War Memorial: The war memorial at Fort Calgary honours those who have served in Canada’s armed forces, and is an annual site of Remembrance Day ceremonies. 8. Special Events: Fort Calgary is a popular venue for community events, such as festivals, concerts, and other activities. 9. Deane House & Gardens: The Deane House & Gardens at Fort Calgary is a beautifully restored Victorian-era home, which showcases the history of Calgary from the perspectives of early employees of the Hudson’s Bay Company. This national monument of Canada portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Fort Calgary was established as a North West Mounted Police (NWMP) fort in 1875. It was originally called “Fort Brisebois” after the captain of the NWMP who oversaw its construction. The fort was located at a strategic site, where the Bow and Elbow rivers converge, and was intended to prevent illegal whiskey traders from operating in the region. The area also provided natural access to the Canadian Prairies and Alberta. The fort served as a home and gathering place for the NWMP for almost ten years, but then was abandoned by the federal government in 1884. It was quickly taken up by settlers who recognized its potential for settlement and development. With the arrival of the railway, the area of Fort Calgary was rapidly expanded. The city of Calgary grew around this fortified police post, and the fort was eventually incorporated into the city's downtown area, where it was fully developed in 1913. Fort Calgary served a variety of purposes throughout the history of the city. It was initially used as the administrative center of the NWMP and residence for its officers. During the early 20th century, it served as an industrial area where different types of manufacturing and engineering operations took place. During the Second World War, it was used as a prisoner of war camp. After the war it became a training facility for the Canadian Army and an operations base for the Cold War. Today, Fort Calgary is a museum and historical site. It features many historic buildings and artifacts that tell the story of how the city of Calgary came to be. The grounds include several interactive exhibits, audio-visual displays, and a cafe. It is also the home of the Military Museums in Calgary, where visitors can learn more about the city’s military history. Fort Calgary is an important part of Calgary's history. It has played an important role in many aspects of its past – from its military roots to its role in the development of the city. It is a historical site that continues to be a popular attraction for many of Calgary's visitors and residents. Sources: - https://www.fortcalgary.com/fort-calgary-history/ - https://www.milparamed.ca/explore/museums/military-museums-in-calgary - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Calgary You must visit one of these historical places in Canada on your Canada tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Fort Calgary fortification is the oldest standing structure in Calgary. The current building, located adjacent to Calgary's famed Bow River, was built in 1875 as the first permanent structure in what is now Calgary. 2. The fort was home to North-West Mounted Police since it's establishment in 1875. 3. The Calgary Police Service had its headquarters within the fort until 1932. 4. Fort Calgary has been designated a National Historic Site since 1971. 5. In 1974, Fort Calgary was transformed into the city's first National Historic Site of Canada in 1974. 6. In 1998, the fort was restored to it's original colours, outlining architecture from 1875. 7. The original barracks, guardhouse, gunnery, and stables have been preserved and remain as part of the site. 8. In 2003, a bridge was constructed to span across the Bow River from Fort Calgary on to St Patrick’s Island. 9. The interpretive centre helps visitors understand the workings of the fur trade in the 1800s, as well as the history and culture of the native people of Southern Alberta. 10. Fort Calgary has the distinction of being the first European fort in Alberta, and one of the most important historic sites in Canada. Visit one of the famous monuments of Canada with your friends and family.