… Old forts stand as silent sentinels of history, blending the harshness of war with the romance of the past …
Fort Malden is probably the anchor of Amherstburg’s history. Constructed in 1796 as Fort Amherstburg, it predates most of Amherstburg’s heritage buildings. And its impact reaches other WMAG examples like Christ Church and Belle Vue (look for its post on October 14).
Some interesting facts about Fort Malden:
- served as the British stronghold on the Detroit frontier during the War of 1812 and later the Rebellion of 1837-38.
- location of an historic meeting between Major Sir Issac Brook and Shawnee Chief Tecumseh (look for a WMAG story on Tecumseh and our Indigenous history September 23rd).
- to prevent the fort from falling in the hands of the Americans, it was burned down by the British in 1813.
- it was also the Americans' longest occupation of Canadian land during the war.
The "imposing structures of war" are now long gone, but there is still so much to see and learn about Amherstburg’s and Canada’s history. Original artifacts, costumed interpreters, interactive activities for visitors, plus books, toys, and t-shirts. It is also the location of the very popular Art by the River event (look for a post WMAG on August 26).
The timing is right to shine a light on Fort Malden as the town celebrates its Living History Festival: experience live cooking demonstrations, musical performances, featured talks, and
historic weapons demonstrations that will blow you away. (Keep reading below for more details.) WOW—all this makes Amherstburg the place to be this weekend!
Next week: It’s hard to believe that River Bookshop will be SIX years old soon.
Stay tuned 
SILENT BOOK CLUB & CHANCE TO WIN TICKETS
Silent Book Club is a hit, and we're doing it again! This time we're changing up the dates to give others a chance to attend. On Thursday, July 30th, from 6 to 8PM, join us for some quiet reading.
Plus, thanks to Landmark Cinemas Canada, you could win passes to see The Odyssey in theatres! Just come out to Silent Book Club this coming Thursday, and everyone who attends will be automatically entered into a draw for a chance to win. Silent Book Club will be from 6-8pm, and we’ll do the draw at the end of the night. Passes include two tickets to see the film at Landmark Cinemas, two drinks, and two popcorns.
We also have several versions of the book in stock if you want to read the book before you see the film—or if you’ve seen it and want more. We hope to see you on Thursday!
FIRE FIGHTER IS COMING TO STORY TIME
River Bookshop has an exciting Story Time guest this Sunday at 11AM when Fire Fighter Cameron Arksey returns.
Come meet a local Amherstburg Fire Fighter and share some great stories and picture books about their very important job in our community. This week at Story Time!
THE BEAUTIFUL GORDIE HOWE BRIDGE IS OPEN (finally)
Linked up directly with Michigan’s I-75, it will bring American visitors the short 19km drive to Amherstburg. Research indicates that 74% of people travelling to Canada want to visit historical buildings and sites, while 84% want to visit interesting towns. Amherstburg has all that, plus charming boutique shops and a growing arts’ scene. In a previous WMAG post we talked about the need to invest funds to draw more tourists to town. Let’s spend some of those new dollars on attracting tourists from Michigan and Ohio.
Celebrate Amherstburg’s heritage at Open Air Weekend from July 31st to August 2nd! Take a step back in time by joining our heritage tours, take part in the Town Crier competition, and more.
Youth Town Crier Competition
Celebrate the centuries-old tradition of town crying at Amherstburg’s first Youth Town Crier Competition! Young participants will build confidence, practice public speaking skills, and showcase their creativity and community spirit.
Participants will receive their official Town Cry two days before the event and deliver it from the Town Stage with flair and confidence. Dress in historical or regal attire, bring your best voice, and help make history!
Click here for this weekend's events schedule
Pictured above: last Saturday we were joined by Marty Gervais and André Narbonne in the HITW for a book launch and reading. Books are available at River Bookshop, including André's new novel, Those Are Pearls.
So much to see and do in Amherstburg!
We hope to see you downtown this weekend.
The River Bookshop Team