Fort Ligonier

In the summer of 1758, the British built Fort Ligonier, the western most British fort along the newly constructed Forbes Road which was about 220 miles long and ran from Carlisle, Pennsylvania to the French Fort Duquesne. (now the site of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania). The British hoped to conquer Fort Duquesne and force the French out of the Ohio River Valley, an area that the French had been steadily moving into and claiming for France. 

 The British attempted but failed to take Fort Duquesne in 1754. Instead of negotiating a peaceful settlement, both countries sent troops to North America. This was the start of the Seven Years War a battle for control by England and France that became a world war with fighting in India, North America, Europe, the West Indies, the Philippines, and coastal Africa. Great Britain, Prussia, Portugal were allied on one side and France, Spain, Austria, Russia, Sweden on the other. A good portion of the museum explains the Seven Year War in detail. Exhibits also cover the building of Fort Ligonier and Forbes Road. 

The fort has been reconstructed in the original location following 18th century plans and clues found by archeologists. Buildings include barracks, officer's quarters, store rooms, a hospital, smokehouse, sawmill, bake ovens, and a blacksmith's forge. Wagons and artillery are on the grounds.

When we visited there were only two reenactors- a hat maker and a wash woman. Both were friendly and knowledgeable. 

The museum is accessible. Paved paths circle around the grounds. The fort is located up a very steep hill. The website states:   "Arrangements can be made for those guests who are unable to walk to the Upper Fort." We did not ask but most likely they use a golf cart that is not accessible. Most of the buildings have steps but it is possible to peek into them. 

The parking lot is unlevel and uphill from the museum however there are two accessible spaces in the level area near the museum where short RVs will fit. Fort  40.24142, -79.23872