Old Fort Niagara as it was

The history of Old Fort Niagara spans more than 300 years, and in that time it survived countless attacks, and several wars. However, due to a possible stupid mistake made by the neighbouring US Coast Guard the old fort went up in flames.

Here is a news snippet:

The fort's staff was busy getting ready for their biggest weekend of the year, when a visitor sounded the alert.

Three nearby fire departments responded to the call and the Coast Guard, stationed next door, but witnesses told us, because of the difficulty getting the heavy equipment in, some park staff had to resort to using garden hoses.

Investigators are still looking into what started the fire, confined to minor roof damage to the Provisions Storehouse built by the British in 1762, including the possibility it was accidentally touched off by a Coast Guard emergency flare.

Coast Guardsmen were conducting training exercises, nearby and there was plenty of wind that could have sent one of the flares or hot embers from one off-course, despite the precautions.

Park officials can't say either, but the Coast Guard is credited with responding quickly.

Full article including video here

Here is a direct link to Old Fort Niagara which hopefully will be ok, and have suffered only very minor damage. This is a terrific historic site that must be preserved for future generations. If you have never been to the Old Fort I highly recommend a visit!