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Celebrate America’s independence at a place where it all began. Bring a picnic and join in the traditional Fourth of July festivities at Fort Roberdeau from 11 AM until 4 PM on Saturday, July 4, 2009.The Fourth of July is a special day at Central Pennsylvania’s only frontier fort of the American Revolution, Fort Roberdeau. Come and learn the story of America’s struggle for independence as it was fought here in Central Pennsylvania. There were no British redcoats battling George Washington’s army out here, but there were plenty of fighters, including militiamen, British and American rangers, Seneca and other American Indians, and private citizens protecting their families and farms. Throughout the day, special programs and tours of the Fort will be available. Costumed staff will be demonstrating some of the chores of 18th century frontier life, including colonial cooking. In keeping with the spirit of independence, admission to the fort is free on the Fourth. |
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Welcome To Fort Roberdeau |
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Frontier Outpost of the American Revolution The original Fort Roberdeau was constructed during the American Revolution. It was built to protect the workers who were trying to open a lead mine and operate a smelter in Central Pennsylvania. The fort was built in 1778 under the direction of General Daniel Roberdeau, one of Pennsylvania's representatives to the Second Continental Congress. Also known as the Lead Mine Fort, the lead produced here was made into ammunition for the Continental Army. The construction of the fort also helped to stabilize the frontier. It gave the farmers a secure place to flee to when British Rangers, local Tories, and their Indian allies threatened. It also provided a base for local militia units and rangers. Ordnance and other supplies intended for Bedford County were also stored at the fort. Fort Roberdeau Historic Site and Natural Area is located near Altoona in Blair County, Pennsylvania. The rural 230-acre tract features a reconstructed Revolutionary War stockade surrounding six log cabins. It also includes an 1858 barn containing exhibits and a museum shop, an education center in an 1860 farmhouse, three nature trails, picnic facilities, and White Oak Hall, a large multipurpose facility. |
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