Fort Frederick Archaeology Site (English 1721-1811) is located along and bounded by Route 100 and Orcan Drive by land, and by both the Northeast and Southeast Rivers on water’s edge. It is situated south of the Placentia Lift Bridge that crosses the gut between Placentia and Jerseyside. Step back in history as you discover the story behind Fort Frederick.
In late 1713 a group of English settlers and fisherman arrived, supported by a contingent of British soldiers. When the British arrived in Placentia they brought along the garrison from St. Johns. British authorities decided to establish their Newfoundland headquarters in Placentia.
In 1713 Placentia was ceded to Great Britain under the Treaty of Utrecht. Thereafter in 1721 the British constructed Fort Frederick consisting of a semi-circular redoubt mounting 12 guns, a guard house, barracks and storehouse surrounded by a palisade was erected on this site and was named after H.R.H. Prince Frederick, then Prince of Wales. The English forces occupied the abandoned Fort Louis site until their English fortification was complete and remained there until they were relocated back to St. Johns in 1811. In 1813, the battery works of the site was used as a protection against American privateers.
Visit the Fort Frederick monument that was erected in 1972 to formally recognise it as a registered historic place. Fort Frederick was also designated as a municipal heritage site in 1972. You will find a low concrete wall outlining the boundaries of the fortification. However, the footprint of the fortification extends far beyond the visible existing wall.
Fort Frederick is an open interpretation site. Tours are available upon request from June to September. Parking is available. Washroom facilities are not available.
For more information contact Town of Placentia at 709-227-2151.
GPS Location is N47°14573, W53°57427