PRESCOTT, ON, June 29, 2021 /CNW/ – National historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas offer Canadians places to enjoy the mental and physical benefits of being outdoors and opportunities to discover history, while respecting the guidance of public health experts.
On June 25, Fort Wellington National Historic Site fully reopened the grounds of the fort and began to welcome visitors for the 2021 visitor season. Over the past three years, parts of the fort grounds have been closed while Parks Canada undertook a $2.6 million federal infrastructure investment renewal of exterior fortifications. The fraising (staked horizontal fence), palisades, revetment wall, and entrance gate have all been enhanced and reconstructed using smart designs. This was done to extend the life of wooden elements in a way that is true to the historic appearance of the fort, does not damage any underground cultural resources, and is economically sustainable to support the long-term presentation of this historic site.
Fort Wellington, as it is presented today, is representative of the 1840s period, and as such, the look is important to the integrity and authenticity of the fort’s story. The wooden fortification elements, including the fraise, are an important part of the fort’s presentation and interpretation. Using modern techniques and materials, still accurately portrays the fort’s defences while allowing the site to be more sustainable and to share Canada’s rich history for generations to come.
The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing Ontario public safety measures mean that only the fort’s outdoor green spaces are open for visitors at this time. The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance to Parks Canada. Before visiting, there are a few things that everyone should remember:
- Plan ahead. The Parks Canada website provides detailed information on what locations are open, what to expect, how to prepare, and what services are available. Be sure to check the website before you travel.
- Follow travel restrictions and respect the guidance of public health experts. We all need to do our part to limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep one another safe. It is important to always follow travel restrictions, even when visiting national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas.
- Make safe choices. Choose activities that correspond with your level of experience in order to avoid injury and/or getting lost and help minimize the demands placed on emergency response, search and rescue teams, and on the health care system.
- Be aware of roadworks. The Town of Prescott is undertaking roadworks on streets adjacent to Fort Wellington. Visitors must access the fort by turning north off King St. East onto Vankoughnet St. This street may be marked as being for local traffic only, which will include access to the fort.
Further information and tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit are available on the Parks Canada website at: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/securite-safety/covid-19-info/covid-19-visite-visit.