Lot 25, Oak Island: The French Command Post and the Forest Barracks (1685–1735) By Jerald Lee Harrah Jr.

Abstract This paper proposes that Lot 25 on Oak Island, Nova Scotia, functioned as the primary French command post and barracks hub during the late 17th and early 18th centuries (circa 1685–1735). Archaeological features, military artifacts, geographic logic, and later land use by Samuel Ball collectively indicate that this location served as the operational and residential center for French personnel stationed on the island. The evidence strongly supports a permanent, organized military presence rather than temporary or civilian occupation. ⸻ 1. Geographic and Strategic Placement of Lot 25 Lot 25 occupies one of the most strategic positions on Oak Island.