Step into the past and fire a piece of history! Fort Henry National Historic Site opens for the 2025 visitor season on Saturday, May 17, welcoming guests daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year, we’re excited to announce the highly anticipated return of a fan-favourite hands-on experience: the chance for visitors to fire a real Snider-Enfield Rifle, an antique firearm dating back to the 1860s.
Used by British infantry and artillery during the mid-19th century, the Snider-Enfield was the first breech-loading rifle adopted by the British Army in 1866. A conversion of the traditional muzzle-loading Enfield, it reflected the technological shift of the time and marked a new era in military firepower. At Fort Henry, which interprets the pivotal year 1867, visitors will once again have the opportunity to safely fire this antique weapon under the guidance of a trained Fort Henry Guard.
“I’m so glad to see this experience return for the 2025 season,” said Mark Bennett, Supervisor of Programming “The chance for guests to safely fire an authentic 1867 Snider-Enfield rifle is something truly special and connects people directly with the history we interpret here at Fort Henry.”
Each participant will fire the Snider-Enfield rifle three times at a secured 30-foot-high limestone wall under strict supervision and safety protocols. All participants must be 12 years or older, with those under 18 requiring the accompaniment and written consent of a parent or legal guardian. Prior to firing, all safety instructions are provided by a Fort Henry Guard proficient in historical firearms.
This unique experience is just one part of a full day of immersive heritage programming at Fort Henry. General admission includes:
- FREE 50-minute guided tours (English and French)
- Artillery Firing Demonstrations
- “Music of the Regiment” performances
- “Women of the Regiment” interpretive demonstration
- Military Training displays
- Victorian Schoolroom Lessons – learn what life was like for children and soldiers under the strict supervision of the schoolmistress.
Don’t just watch history unfold before your eyes, live it! From awe-inspiring military demonstrations to captivating heritage storytelling, Fort Henry is the ultimate destination for visitors of all ages to step into Canada’s past and create unforgettable memories.
Tickets for this experience can be bought the same day at Mrs. Henry’s Treat Shop. For more information, schedules, and ticket pricing, visit www.forthenry.com.