Fort Willem I: Origins and Construction
Fort Willem I, originally known as Fort Trigge, was constructed by the British during their occupation of Sint Maarten in the early 19th century. Perched on a hill overlooking Philipsburg, the fort was strategically positioned to monitor and defend Great Bay from potential French or Dutch attacks.
The fort’s construction featured a robust design, with thick stone walls and a commanding view of the surrounding area, making it a formidable defensive structure.
After the British returned the island to Dutch control in 1816, the fort was renamed Fort Willem I in honor of King William I of the Netherlands.
The fort played a significant role in the island’s defense during the turbulent Napoleonic Wars.