File photo: An aerial view of Fort Amsterdam
Fort Amsterdam, at Abandze, in the central region, is a testament to European rivalry, trade, and dominance.
While several forts along the Gold Coast were highly guarded with soldiers, cannons, and watchtowers, the Dutch, who eventually took possession of Fort Amsterdam, used an unexpected security measure, geese.
Yes, geese!
These seemingly ‘ordinary’ birds, often associated with farmlands and ponds, played an important role in protecting the fort.
Their sharp instincts, territorial nature, and loud honks made them one of the most reliable warning systems for impending threats.
A rectangular hole in Fort Amsterdam’s courtyard is believed to have once functioned as a pond.
It wasn’t just decorative; it was home to the fort’s ‘winged watchmen’.
The geese were carefully placed in this area, allowing them to see deep into the surrounding forest.
Speaking exclusively to GhanaWeb’s Etsey Atisu, a tour guide at Fort Amsterdam, Joseph Kofi Kakraba, said, “The geese were located in the courtyard and could sense anyone approaching from the nearby forest. If they detected any movement, the geese would make noise to alert the soldiers. Bringing the geese in was a strategic decision for security purposes, as they could detect people from a distance.”
This insight discloses the creative thinking behind the Dutch security approach.
Geese are known for their keen eyesight, acute hearing, and strong territorial instincts.
They can notice movements much faster than humans and will immediately honk loudly at the presence of strangers.
About Fort Amsterdam
Before the Dutch took control, the British had built Fort Amsterdam in 1638, originally naming it Fort Cormantin.
It was the first British fort in Africa, although, interestingly, it was not initially built for the slave trade.
Instead, the British envisioned it as a warehouse for merchants to store goods.
However, the Dutch attacked and took over the fort, renaming it Fort Amsterdam.
Under Dutch authority, it became part of the transatlantic slave trade network.
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