Pontiac Park
319 E High St.Defiance , OH 43512
419-784-2745 | http://cityofdefiance.com/divisions/parks-recreation/#1498585503445-c29f7f43-609c
Chief Pontiac Along the Maumee River
At the confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize Rivers, Pontiac Park showcases the important history of the area.
Situated along the Maumee River, Pontiac Park was named in honor of the Ottawa chief, Pontiac, who was born in the Maumee Valley around 1720. Pontiac believed that unified military strength was the only force capable of maintaining control of Native American land in the Northwest Territory. Following the French and Indian War, Pontiac became increasingly concerned about English settlement in the area and unified several tribes around the Great Lakes to stand against English intrusion. Pontiac’s Rebellion occurred in May of 1763, with an attack on Britain’s Fort Detroit. The attack failed, but Native American raids on British settlements continued into the following year. In 1766 Pontiac surrendered to the British, but is remembered as one of the great Ottawa chiefs and a leader of the resistance against English conquest. Pontiac continued to live along the Maumee River until his death in 1769.
Read MoreNotes for Travelers
Historic markers throughout the park inform visitors of some of the history of Defiance and Northwest Ohio. Benches and picnic tables throughout Pontiac Park offer a tranquil setting for watching the Auglaize and Maumee Rivers roll by. Community programs are held throughout the year.
Additional Resources
Never Come to Peace Again: Pontiac’s Uprising and the Fate of the British Empire in North America, David Dixon.The Civil War of 1812: American Citizens, British Subjects, Irish Rebels, & Indian Allies, Alan Taylor.