The first permanent European settlement on the island was established here by the French in 1720. The British, who captured the area in 1758, erected Fort Amherst, a series of defences on the site of the original French garrison, and occupied the post until 1768. Today only the earthworks remain-rolling, grass-covered mounds from which sweeping view of Charlottetown harbour extend. In the visitor centre, displays and a video presentation (15min) offer an introduction to the site's history.