Fort Meigs

29100 West River Road
Perrysburg, OH 43552
419-874-4121 1-800-283-8916

"Thursday, Feby 2nd 1813-- The weather is moderated, becomes quite soft. This day I assist Capt Gratiot of U.S. Engineers to survey the lines of encampment and the ravines adjacent. Hereafter I will give a plan of the lines as well as the buildings...to be erected for defense."

--Joseph Larwell, 1 Lt. 2nd U.S. Artillery, Ft. Meigs

William Henry Harrison built Fort Meigs on the Maumee River in 1813 to protect northwest Ohio and Indiana from British invasion. Today's reconstruction is one of the largest log forts in America. British and Canadian troops, assisted by Indians under Tecumseh, besieged the fort twice. The 10-acre log enclosure with 7 blockhouses and 5 emplacements presented a formidable defense. The first assault was in May of 1813 and the second was in July. Both failed and the British retreated after the second.

The blockhouses contain exhibits explaining Ohio's participation in the War of 1812 as well as the life at Fort Meigs. Artifacts recovered from the original fort are on display.

LOCATION

Fort Meigs is on West River Road (State Route 65) in Perrysburg, in Wood County. Take I-475 to exit 2 and turn north to State Route 65.