The fort opened in 1872 and was active for 11 years, until 1883.
As the ships returned to port the coastal forts opened fire on Australia.
The fort opens around May 10, the anniversary of the 1775 capture, every year, closing in late October.
The fort opened fire against distant targets on 14 May.
By January 1880 two guns were in place and the fort opened later the same year with an extensive opening ceremony on 2 October.
The fort opened to the public free of charge in 2007, though restoration work is ongoing.
In the 1980s the fort opened as a tourist attraction despite many building's needing urgent repair.
After losing its military purpose, the fort was acquire by the commune and opened to the public in October 2007.
In 1970, the former fort first opened as a campground.
As soon as the American vessel was in range, the forts opened fire.