Fort Hamilton Reopens Following Renovations
The City of Hamilton has officially reopened Fort Hamilton to the public following “extensive renovations and archaeological investigations.”
A spokesperson said, “The City of Hamilton is pleased to announce that Fort Hamilton has officially reopened to the public and is once again available for event bookings, following extensive renovations and archaeological investigations.
“Over the past two years, the City has undertaken a comprehensive restoration programme at the fort, focused on infrastructure, accessibility, sustainability, and heritage preservation. Works completed include:
- Major upgrades to electrical and water infrastructure to support daily operations and future events, including a new high-voltage power vault and a 36,000-imperial-gallon water tank
- Installation of a new covered public terrace designed to harvest rainwater, alongside site-wide trenching to support upgraded power, potable water, irrigation, and data services
- Improved accessibility through the installation of an ADA-compliant access ramp
- Extensive archaeological investigations, expert analysis of artefacts, and detailed 3D topographic survey work to document and protect the site
- Ongoing environmental restoration, including removal of invasive plant species, new planting initiatives, and the recovery of historic stonework
- Repairs to historic stonework and roofs of existing buildings to preserve the Fort’s structural integrity
- Installation of a memorial plaque honouring the late George Ogden, former City Parks Superintendent, for his role in shaping the Fort’s landscaped grounds
Patrick Cooper, City Engineer and Chief Operating Officer, said, “Fort Hamilton is one of the City’s most significant heritage assets, and this restoration was carefully designed to balance preservation with practical improvements.
“The work completed over the past two years ensures the Fort remains structurally sound, accessible, and fit for purpose, while honouring its history. Much of this initial phase focused on essential infrastructure and preservation work that strengthens the Fort behind the scenes. These foundational upgrades, many of which are not immediately apparent to visitors, were critical to ensuring the site’s long-term sustainability, safety, and functionality.
“The City has intentionally approached the restoration as a phased programme, with future phases expected to include enhancements to internal facilities such as the kitchen and additional visitor-facing improvements over time.”
The spokesperson said, “Archaeological surveying and excavation formed a core component of the restoration initiative, designed to protect the site while supporting future upgrades. The project was undertaken by the City in collaboration with the Bermuda National Trust, and led by Florence Laino, Archaeological Project Manager for the City. The work aligns with the City’s Strategic Plan to enhance Hamilton’s heritage assets and deliver high-quality public spaces.
“One of the most significant discoveries occurred ahead of the installation of the new water tank, where excavations uncovered the buried remains of the Fort’s 19th-century outhouse. Beneath a later concrete slab, archaeologists revealed an earlier floor surface, intact urinal structures, drainage systems, and deposits including clay tobacco pipes, slate fragments, fish bones and scales, buttons, and other artefacts. Among the finds were fragments of clay tobacco pipes from Ireland and the clay boot of what appears to be a toy soldier, offering rare insight into daily life at the Fort during the 1800s.
“Situated on a hilltop along the eastern boundary of the City, Fort Hamilton offers panoramic views and is an ideal vantage point for enjoying Bermuda’s spectacular sunsets. Historically a British Garrison, the Fort later served as headquarters for the Bermuda Volunteer Rifle Corps from the mid-1890s to the mid-1930s. In the decades that followed, the dry moat was transformed into lush tropical gardens, now accessible via a winding pathway.
“Today, Fort Hamilton is an integral part of Hamilton’s parks network and features manicured gardens and lawns, spectacular views and is open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset.
“To book Fort Hamilton for an event, visit cityofhamilton.bm or contact the Venue Rentals Coordinator at venuerentals@cityhall.bm.”
