Virtual Tour
Take a walk around the grounds and through the buildings with this virtual 360 tour.
Old Fort Map
1. Commander’s Quarters: This impressive building served as the home and headquarters of Major Whistler. On the ground floor was the headquarters where the daily orders were written and court-martials were held. Period cooking practices are demonstrated here.
2. Flagpole: The flag flown above Fort Wayne bears fifteen stars and fifteen stripes, one for each state when it was adopted in 1794. During events, period specific flags are flown, signifying occupation of the Old Fort.
3. Hospital: Although called the hospital, this building served a variety of purposes. The soldiers’ kitchen was located on the lower floor. The hospital only consisted of one room on the second floor and could accommodate six men. This building also housed a barracks which was home to eight men.
4. Blockhouses: Soldiers positioned here could cover the outside walls of the Old Fort.
5. Main Gate/ Enlisted Quarters/ Quartermaster: The main gate to the Old Fort is in the middle of the enlisted soldiers’ barracks. Soldiers slept two to a bed. Those with families typically lived on the second floor. In the eastern half, we have recreated the Quartermaster’s office, where soldiers would draw their supplies.
6. Officers’ Quarters: This spacious building sheltered the Old Fort’s officers. Like the other main buildings, the Officers’ Quarters form part of the defensive wall. The solid log outside wall of the building is composed of 8-inch thick timbers which could stop any musket ball. Various period specific crafts and occupations are demonstrated here.
7. Post Gardens: In garden plots outside the walls, many kinds of vegetables and herbs were raised. Especially common was corn which had long been grown in the area. Other types of fruits and vegetables, from asparagus to watermelons, were brought to Fort Wayne by the soldiers and traders.
8. The Village: The complex of buildings outside the Old Fort walls serviced the garrison and the local Native Americans. Included here were a blacksmith shop, a woodworker, a bakery, and the homes and shops of several Native American traders. Today the workshops provide a permanent space for our blacksmith and woodwright, with additional space for different artisans at each event. The building further from the Old Fort, the “Modern Building” provides meeting space, modern restrooms and hosts a bake sale at events.
