Fort Mackinac soldiers assembled on the Parade Ground for daily roll call, Sunday morning inspection and to practice their military drills. The Parade Ground was originally gravel and on bright, sunny days the white gravel and white buildings created an uncomfortable glare on the soldiers’ eyes. As a result, Captain Greenleaf A. Goodale ordered several of the buildings surrounding the Parade Ground painted brown in 1888 to relieve the glare. The original color has been discovered through scientific paint analysis and the appropriate buildings have been authentically repainted. Conveniently located in the center of the fort, the Parade Ground is home to many live interpretation programs. Here the fort interpreters conduct marching and weapons demonstrations, perform drill, and lead guided tours.
