SOUTH SALLY PORT
PROS CONS
People will usually stop to talk at this post. If the fort isn't busy, it gets very boring.
You can see most of the fort.
HISTORY
This is the main entrance to Fort Mackinac. The thick limestone wall dates from the original British construction in 1780. The Sally Port is 150 feet above Marquette Park and the harbor. The step climb and gun platforms discouraged enemy attacks on the Fort’s front.
Position: Stand at the top of the stairway entrance, on either side of the stairway.
If Raining: move to the porch of the Guardhouse/Jail
INSTRUCTIONS
Bathrooms: Straight up boardwalk to North Sally Port, behind Soldiers’ Barracks.
Water Fountain: Top of the steps and in the bathrooms.
State Park Office: Across Parade Grounds to stairs; across bridge next to stairs; in door on right.
People will usually stop to talk at this post. If the fort isn't busy, it gets very boring.
You can see most of the fort.
HISTORY
This is the main entrance to Fort Mackinac. The thick limestone wall dates from the original British construction in 1780. The Sally Port is 150 feet above Marquette Park and the harbor. The step climb and gun platforms discouraged enemy attacks on the Fort’s front.
Position: Stand at the top of the stairway entrance, on either side of the stairway.
If Raining: move to the porch of the Guardhouse/Jail
INSTRUCTIONS
- Greet guests and welcome them to Fort Mackinac.
- Know the times of the rifle firings, cannon firings, and guided tours.
- If no demonstrations are currently taking place, encourage visitors to begin their tour by viewing the video presentation in the Soldiers' Barracks, and answer any other questions they may have.
- Know how to direct guests to the Upper Gun Platform, Tea Room, Fort Mackinac Museum Store, restrooms and multiple exits.
- Keep area tidy. Pick up site maps that fall under the stairway.
Bathrooms: Straight up boardwalk to North Sally Port, behind Soldiers’ Barracks.
Water Fountain: Top of the steps and in the bathrooms.
State Park Office: Across Parade Grounds to stairs; across bridge next to stairs; in door on right.