This was the site of an American raid during the War of 1812. In the summer of 1814, the United States assembled an invasion fleet to recapture Fort Michilimackinac. It anchored offshore and burned an abandoned British fort on St Joseph's Island on July 20. The next day 150 soldiers and sailors raided the North West Company depot here on the St Mary's River. Forewarned of the attack, the traders and residents abandoned the post. The invaders razed its sawmill, storehouses, dwellings and stables. They also destroyed the canal lock and set the schooner "Perseverance" on fire. After the Americans left for Michilimackinac, the North West Company resumed control and began to rebuild its post.

Location

Near the eastern end of the Canadian locks, off Huron Street, Sault Ste. Marie

Themes

• War and conflict