Ever wondered how Fort Wayne earned its namesake?

You can learn this and more through a visit to the “Old Fort.” A little known fact is there were three American forts built in Fort Wayne.  The current fort, located just north of downtown on Spy Run, is a replica of the one constructed by Major John Whistler and his men during 1815 — 1816. It is reportedly the last fort to stand at the junction of the St. Marys, St. Joseph, and Maumee Rivers.  It was designed purely for defense against Native Americans, and could be comfortably defended by a relatively small number of men.

Care to learn more? A tour might be your answer. The tour begins with a brief history of the area and the forts that made up Fort Wayne, The visitor will learn about the importance of the rivers and the portage road, along with information about the people who settled this area, including Native Americans, tradesmen and merchants.

Currently the Old Fort is only open for tours during events listed on their Event Schedule. Tours are offered hourly during event weekends and take approximately 40 minutes. There is no cost for the tour. Inquiries about the tour can be made at the Kekionga Merchantile. The Fort is open to walk through and around at any time, but you will not have access to the interior of the buildings.

This experience is made possible through an organization known as Historic Fort Wayne, Inc., a 501(c)3 not-for-profit and a 100-percent volunteer organization. The organization is dedicated to the purpose of creating a permanent endowment, routine maintenance, and developing a historically based education program. With private and corporate investors plus local volunteers, Historic Fort Wayne, Inc. believes that this endeavor will play an integral role in the revitalization of the downtown area.

Experience an important part of Fort Wayne’s Native American heritage through Miami Indian Heritage Days.

This cultural celebration kicks off Saturday, May 5 at the Chief Richardville House, 5705 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne.  Sponsored by the History Center, Miami Indian Heritage Days programs are held from 1-4 pm on the first Saturday of the month, May through November.

Miami Indian Heritage Days are a great way to learn about the pastimes of Fort Wayne's first inhabitants.

What can visitors expect? The event promises local artists, performers, and representatives from the Miami Indians and other Native American groups demonstrating aspects of their heritage.

• “Medicine Woman Drum” will be featured May 5 beginning at 1 p.m. The group’s performances demonstrate the importance of drumming, singing and dancing in Miami society.
• On June 2, Erik Vosteen will present traditional Great Lakes weaponry, including hand and throwing weapons as well as the atlatl.
• July 7 is the bi-centennial celebration of Miami Chief Little Turtle’s death. A memorial herb medicine wheel will be created on that day and artifacts belonging to Little Turtle will be on display.
• The August 4 program by Katrina Mitten will feature Native American bead work.
• September 1, Dani Tippman presents “Miami Harvest” on edible and usable plants and materials.
• M.I.A.M.I. (Miami Indian Alliance of Miami Indians) will present programs on October 6 about wikiami building and cattail matting.
• November 3-4 is Traders Days. Vendors, craftsmen and artists sell quality Native American items including fine art, gourd work, beading, carved wood pieces, corn husk dolls, Christmas ornaments, Native American shields, jewelry, clothing, feather work, homemade baked goods and more.
• Traders Days events are free to the public and are open Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Admission for each Saturday event is $7 adults and $5 students and seniors. History Center members and children ages 5 and under are free. Admission also includes the opportunity to visit the Chief Richardville House.

For more information, contact the History Center at (260) 426-2882 or visit the website.