Fort Ligonier
Courtesy of Mind meal
12 May 2007
Website:
Telephone Number:
Location:
200 S Market Street, Ligonier, PA 15658
Hours:
April through November, daily 10 AM to 5 PM
December through March, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 10 AM to 5 PM
Fort History:
Fort Ligonier stands as a British fortification from the era of the French and Indian War, situated in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, United States. Throughout its eight-year tenure as a garrison, Fort Ligonier remained impervious to enemy capture. It played a pivotal role during the Forbes Expedition of 1758, serving as a staging ground for military operations. Moreover, during the tumultuous Pontiac's War of 1763, the fort emerged as a crucial link in the British communication and supply networks. Although besieged and attacked twice by Native American forces, it withstood until the decisive British victory at Bushy Run in August of that year. Eventually decommissioned from active service in 1766, the fort now stands as a reconstructed site, complemented by an adjacent museum housing artifacts from the battle. Visitors have the opportunity to embark on guided tours of the fort, while during Fort Ligonier Days, the fort's cannons resound with historical significance.
In the broader context of the conflict, French triumphs over figures like George Washington and Edward Braddock in 1754–55 led to the wresting of control of strategic locations like the forks of the Ohio River, known today as modern Pittsburgh, from British hands. By 1758, the task of reclaiming Fort Duquesne, the French stronghold at the forks, fell upon General John Forbes. He initiated the construction of a new road across Pennsylvania, flanked by a series of fortifications, with the "Post at Loyalhanna" serving as the final link, positioned fifty miles from his primary objective.
The construction of Fort Ligonier commenced in September 1758. Despite setbacks such as the defeat of a British force at Fort Duquesne on September 14 and a successful French assault on Loyalhanna on October 12, General Forbes pressed on. Ultimately, the French abandoned Fort Duquesne, allowing Forbes to claim it on November 25. In recognition of Secretary of State William Pitt, Forbes christened the site "Pittsburgh." Additionally, Loyalhanna earned the name "Fort Ligonier" in honor of Forbes's superior, Sir John Ligonier, the commander-in-chief in Great Britain.
About the Museum:
If you’re looking for history, knowledge and adventure, you’ve come to the right place. Here, the “sacred and holy relics” of the nation’s history await you. Walk among the very objects and artifacts that helped hold the fort — and the fate of an entire nation.
Go around the world as you explore the stories of Fort Ligonier. This world-class museum includes an extraordinary collection of art and artifacts from across the globe — along with one of the most unique archaeological collections from the French and Indian War era discovered right on the grounds of the historic site. The museum also includes a recreation of the fort itself to explore.
From museum website
