The game of Fort was developed and patented in 1879 by Dr. William B. Cowan, who was a homeopathic physician in Guelph. The game is similar to bagatelle. Players take turns shooting 12 small balls into a wooden labyrinth maze.
In the game of Fort, players gain points for knocking down specially placed pins within the maze. The team with the most points after three rounds of play wins the game.
Up until 2 days ago I did not know what this game was called. My cousins and I used to play it in our Grandpa's living room every Sunday afternoon in the 40's and 50's. My father died last week (at age 88) and at the funeral reception I mentioned the game to one of the cousins who used to play it with me. He told me the name was "Fort" and who inherited it. I have contacted the current owner and are arranging to meet them to photograph it. Their sons still play with it. I found your site using the "AskRalph.com" search engine. Delightful site - thanks!!
