Fort Laurens Celebrates 246th Anniversary of March-in

Fort Laurens Museum and the Brigade of the American Revolution partner to host a free event on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. commemorating the 246th anniversary of the Continental Army’s arrival to the site of Fort Laurens.

In 1778, under orders from General Washington, General Lachlan McIntosh led his army of 1,200 continental, militia, and Native American allies from Fort Pitt and Fort McIntosh across the Ohio country to the west bank of the Tuscarawas River. Arriving on November 18, 1778 General McIntosh decided to construct what would become Fort Laurens. Named after Continental Congress President Henry Laurens, the fort was to be a staging ground and supply depot for the expedition’s ultimate goal: the capture of Fort Detroit.

Reenactors in period dress will march into the site of Fort Laurens just as the Continental forces did in 1778. Visitors can greet the soldiers as they march in, enjoy various historical demonstrations and learn about 18th-century weaponry, tools and practices.

Additionally, the Fort Laurens gift shop will be open for this commemoration and is offering special sales from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shoppers can purchase unique books and merchandise for the holiday season.

The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the museum is $6 per person.

For more information, contact Fort Laurens at 330.874.2059 or visit the website at www.fortlaurensmuseum.org