Fort Plaisance
| Fort Plaisance | |
|---|---|
| overlooking Placentia Bay, Newfoundland | |
 Fort Plaisance in 1675 | |
| Site information | |
| Type | French fort |
 | |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1662 |
Fort Plaisance was a French fort built in the 17th century on the island of Newfoundland during the period of New France. It was the first permanent French military fortification in Newfoundland and played a key role in protecting French interests in the region.[1]
Establishment
[edit]In 1662, the French established a strategic trading post in a well-protected cove overlooking Placentia Bay, separating the Avalon Peninsula from the rest of Newfoundland.[2] The area was of high economic importance due to its proximity to the Grand Banks, one of the richest fishing grounds in the world.[3]
Construction and Fortifications
[edit]To protect the settlement, the French constructed a series of forts, beginning with Fort Plaisance in 1662, followed by Fort Royal in 1687 and Fort Saint Louis in 1690.[1] The fort was strategically placed within the harbor to defend the settlement of Plaisance from attacks, particularly from the English, who were expanding their presence in Newfoundland.
Originally, Fort Plaisance was constructed with earthen ramparts reinforced with wooden stakes. It was initially armed with four cannons but was gradually reinforced. By 1667, the fort housed 32 cannons, significantly strengthening its defenses.[2]
Conflicts and Military Role
[edit]Fort Plaisance played a defensive role during the late 17th century, as tensions between the French and English escalated in North America. Throughout the late 1600s, Newfoundland was a battleground for Anglo-French hostilities, with attacks occurring from both sides. The fort was used as a base for military operations and trade, helping France maintain control over the region.[1]
Decline and Abandonment
[edit]In 1713, the Treaty of Utrecht forced the French to abandon their settlements in Newfoundland, including Fort Plaisance.[4] The settlement of Plaisance was ceded to the British and renamed Placentia. Many of the French inhabitants were relocated to Île Royale, where construction of the Louisbourg Fortress began.[4]
Legacy
[edit]Today, Fort Plaisance remains a significant historical site, symbolizing the French colonial presence in Newfoundland. While little remains of the original fortifications, archaeological studies and historical records provide insights into its structure and importance.[2]
See also
[edit]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c MacDonald, Hugh. "The Forts of Newfoundland: 1600-1700." *Canadian Military History Journal*, 1993.
- ^ a b c "Plaisance to Placentia: A History of Newfoundland's French Settlement". *The Newfoundland Historical Society*. Accessed February 2025. [1]
- ^ Grand Banks, Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed February 2025. [2]
- ^ a b "Treaty of Utrecht (1713)", Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed February 2025. [3]
External links
[edit]- http://www.heritage.nf.ca/patrimoine/exploration/forts_f.html
- http://www.pc.gc.ca/fra/lhn-nhs/nl/castlehill/natcul/histor.aspx
47°15′10″N 53°58′05″W / 47.252851°N 53.968001°W
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