BOLIVAR, Ohio – Visitors can get a glimpse of military life on the frontier at Fort Laurens State Memorial during its annual Encampment of the Brigade of the American Revolution, June 22-23.
The brigade is composed of military re-enactors and their camp-following families. Portraying both British and American forces, they will driII, demonstrate weaponry and play fifes and drums. Tactical weapon demonstrations, or mock battles, will be staged.
Fort Laurens was built in 1778 and abandoned in 1779. Built for an aborted attack on the British at Detroit, the fort’s inhabitants withstood starvation and siege by hostile Indians.
The site of the fort, which no longer stands, was excavated and is marked near the park’s museum. The museum contains artifacts from the excavation, a crypt containing the remains of the soldiers who gave their lives there, as well as original and reproduction military artifacts.
Admission is $3 for adults and $1.25 for children 6-12. The admission includes entrance to the museum. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Friends of Fort Laurens’ Moccasin Roast, usually held during this event, will be October 19.
Fort Laurens is located on county Road 102 (Fort Laurens Rd.). It is a half mile from exit 93 (Bolivar-Zoar Exit) of Interstate 77, south of Canton.
For more information call 330-874-2059 or 800-283-8914.
