Built in 1846 as part of the defensive fortifications of Kingston, the Murney Tower stands as one of the finest Martello Towers in North America. The tower has three large cannon that were used to defend the western approaches to the Kingston harbor.

Although this redoubt was never attacked, it demonstrates the importance of Kingston to the defense of 19th century British North America. It served as military housing for over forty years after its completion when changing technology of warfare made it obsolete.

The tower was abandoned by the military in late 19th century. Its three floors house a collection of social and military artifacts of the 19th century, which tell of the soldiers and their families who lived there. Visitors are encouraged to examine the tower's architectural features including the four caponiers at its base, which protect the dry ditch.