Point Frederick (Kingston, Ontario)

Point Frederick is a peninsula located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, situated at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Cataraqui River. It is historically and currently significant as a military site and training institution.

History:

Originally a strategic location for Indigenous peoples, Point Frederick was recognized by European settlers for its defensive capabilities. During the late 18th century, it became a key naval base for the British Royal Navy on Lake Ontario. The peninsula served as a shipbuilding and repair facility, particularly during the War of 1812. Numerous warships were constructed and maintained at the naval yard on Point Frederick.

Following the War of 1812, the importance of the naval base diminished, and the site transitioned to a military college.

Royal Military College of Canada (RMC):

In 1876, Point Frederick became the home of the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC), a military university dedicated to training officers for the Canadian Armed Forces. RMC offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various disciplines, alongside military leadership training. The college's presence significantly shapes the character of Point Frederick.

Facilities and Landmarks:

Point Frederick is home to various historical buildings and monuments associated with its naval and military history, as well as modern academic and training facilities for RMC. These include:

• Fort Frederick: A Martello tower dating back to the War of 1812, now part of the RMC Museum.
• The Stone Frigate: One of the original buildings of RMC, a large stone structure initially intended for naval stores.
• Memorial Arch: A monument commemorating RMC graduates who have died in service.
• Parade Square: A central gathering place for RMC cadets.

Present Day:

Point Frederick remains an active military site and the primary campus of the Royal Military College of Canada. It is a National Historic Site of Canada. Access to certain areas of Point Frederick may be restricted due to security concerns and military activities. The site continues to play a vital role in the education and training of future leaders of the Canadian Armed Forces and in preserving Canadian military heritage.