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Site of Old Fort Dearborn

Explore the historical landmark of Old Fort Dearborn in downtown Chicago, where the city's early settlers shaped its vibrant legacy.

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The Site of Old Fort Dearborn marks the location of a pivotal 19th-century fort in Chicago's history. Built in 1803, the fort played a crucial role in the region's early settlement. Today, the site is marked by plaques and signs detailing the fort's history, offering a glimpse into Chicago's past.

A brief summary to Site of Old Fort Dearborn

  • London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, Chicago Loop, Illinois, 60601, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Look for the bronze markers embedded in the sidewalk at Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive to visualize the fort's original boundaries.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk for scenic views and a deeper appreciation of the area's history.
  • Visit nearby Millennium Park and other downtown attractions to make the most of your trip to the Loop.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near Millennium Park, walk south on Michigan Avenue until you reach the Chicago River. Cross the DuSable Bridge at Wacker Drive and continue walking east along E Lower Wacker Dr. The Site of Old Fort Dearborn is situated near the London House on E Lower Wacker Dr. This scenic route offers views of the river and surrounding architecture.

  • Public Transport

    From any 'L' train station in the Loop, take any train to the Clark/Lake Station. From there, walk east towards Lake Michigan on Lower Wacker Drive. The Site of Old Fort Dearborn is located near London House. A single ride on the 'L' costs $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber or Lyft) directly to the site's address at London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Depending on your starting location in downtown Chicago, the cost may vary, but you can expect to pay between $10 and $20.

  • Car

    If driving, navigate to London House, E Lower Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Note that parking in the immediate vicinity is limited and can be expensive. Valet parking at London House is $80. Nearby parking garages typically cost between $12 and $18 for 2 hours. Cheaper options may be available further away.

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Discover more about Site of Old Fort Dearborn

The Site of Old Fort Dearborn, located in the heart of downtown Chicago, marks the location of the original Fort Dearborn, constructed in 1803. Named in honor of U.S. Secretary of War Henry Dearborn, the fort was built on the south bank of the Chicago River. It served as the westernmost U.S. Army outpost and a key strategic point in the early 19th century. The fort was initially a wooden stockade that housed soldiers and their families, along with residences and businesses. The settlement around the fort grew to include fur traders and other civilians. However, in 1812, during the War of 1812, the fort was destroyed following an attack by Native Americans. It was rebuilt in 1816 on the same site, consisting of a double wall of wooden palisades, officer and enlisted barracks and other buildings. The fort was decommissioned in 1837, and eventually, the city's growth led to its demolition in 1857. Today, visitors to the site can find bronze markers embedded in the sidewalk at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Wacker Drive, which indicate the approximate location of the fort's walls. These markers and information signs provide historical context, allowing visitors to reflect on Chicago's early days and its transformation into a major metropolis. The site is a Chicago Landmark, located in the Michigan-Wacker Historic District, at the southern end of the DuSable Michigan Avenue Bridge.

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