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Welcome To Fort Roberdeau

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.

 
Revolutionary War Days

July 17 & 18, 2010

Grounds and camp open 11 AM - 5 PM

Battle demonstration at 3 PM each day

Admission: Adults $5, Children $3

(For our "regulars," please note that Rev War Days are a little later this year.) 

This is the big weekend at Fort Roberdeau when the Revolutionary War comes to life.

At the gateMilitary reenactors will spend the weekend at the Fort demonstrating what it was like to be a soldier during the Rev War. Visit their camp and the barracks, see weapons demonstrations, and talk to these knowledgeable interpreters of 18th century life.

 

Peggy and tableOther aspects of 18th century life on the Pennsylvania frontier will also be on display, including fireplace cooking.

Merchants will be selling their wares, including reproductions of colonial kitchen utensils, textiles, and other goods. The Acorn Shop, the Fort's own museum shop, will also be open and is stocked with books, pottery, and many great items.

Crafts and children's games will be offered throughout the day.