- After the American Revolution, Britain ceded Detroit to the U.S. under the Jay Treaty, and British forces moved across the Detroit River to establish a new military base at Fort Malden in Amherstburg.
- This marked the beginning of Amherstburg’s role as a strategic military and trade hub.
Historic Periods
Journey through Amherstburg’s rich history, from the Town's establishment in 1796 to present day.
British Establishment of Amherstburg (1796)
- Amherstburg and Fort Malden played a significant role in the war between Britain and the United States.
- In 1812, British troops and Indigenous allies under General Isaac Brock and Shawnee leader Tecumseh launched a successful attack on Detroit from Amherstburg.
- In 1813, the British and their allies were forced to retreat, and American forces briefly occupied Fort Malden before burning parts of it.
Role in the Underground Railroad (1800s)
- Amherstburg was a major entry point for thousands of freedom seekers escaping slavery in the U.S.
- The town had a strong Black community and was home to the Nazrey African Methodist Episcopal Church, a key gathering place for formerly enslaved people.
- The Amherstburg Freedom Museum preserves this history today.
Upper Canada Rebellion (1837-1838)
- Fort Malden was reoccupied by British troops to defend against potential American-led invasions during the Patriot War, a series of armed conflicts related to the Upper Canada Rebellion. The Rebellion was an armed uprising against British rule, seeking political reform but ultimately leading to stronger colonial governance.
- Amherstburg remained an important military site during this period of unrest.
Shipbuilding and Maritime Trade (1800s-1900s)
- The King’s Navy Yard was a major shipbuilding center for the British Navy in the early 1800s.
- Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Amherstburg thrived as a shipping and fishing hub due to its strategic location on the Detroit River.
Prohibition and Rum-Running (1920s-1933)
- During U.S. Prohibition, Amherstburg became a key location for rum-running, smuggling alcohol across the river to Detroit through the Livingstone Channel.
- Many local residents participated in the trade, using small boats to evade law enforcement.
Growth of Tourism and Heritage Preservation (1900s-Present)
- Over the years, Amherstburg has embraced its historical significance, preserving key sites like Fort Malden National Historic Site, Park House Museum, and the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.