Scrapbook Photo 03/25/24 - 93 New Stories - REAL Environmental & Conservation Leadership In PA: http://tinyurl.com/3729bhvv
Feature - New Online Guide to PA's Forbes Trail Features History, Outdoor Recreation
Photo

A new website takes visitors into the world of young George Washington and the 1758 Forbes Expedition, then provides them with tools to experience that world today, its history and recreational opportunities, on the Forbes Trail that stretches from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh.

The new Forbes Trail website was launched this week as part of the commemoration of the 250th anniversaries of the Forbes Trail and the French and Indian War.

The Forbes Trail stretches from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, primarily along Route 30. The corridor along the trail is home to a rich collection of historic sites spanning more than 250 years of American history, as well as a wide array of outdoor recreation.

Visitors to the website will find lively history and illustrations. Travel tools include interactive maps with easy access to details on 80 historic sites and 24 state parks, an interactive trip planner, and a calendar of Forbes Trail anniversary events.

The site features seven gateways: Philadelphia, Lancaster, Carlisle, Fort Loudoun, Bedford, Ligonier and Pittsburgh. The final four trace their origins to the Forbes Expedition and also celebrate 250th anniversaries in 2008.

George Washington's participation is a fascinating part of the Forbes Trail story.

The trail was carved into the Pennsylvania wilderness in 1758 by 6,000 British and colonial troops commanded by British General John Forbes. The expedition was a turning point in the French and Indian War, resulting in the capture of the French stronghold, Fort Duquesne (at the site of modern-day Pittsburgh).

The headstrong 26-year-old Washington, a colonel with the Virginia troops, first caught General Forbes' attention by strenuously but unsuccessfully arguing against the route Forbes had selected across Pennsylvania. He later distinguished himself in battle, nearly losing his life fending off a French attack on Fort Ligonier; his First Virginia

Regiment was among the first to reach Fort Duquesne. This was the last of his French and Indian War experiences, and added to his growing reputation as a military leader.

The Forbes Trail website was developed by French and Indian War 250, Inc., a non-profit organization spearheading the national commemoration of the French and Indian War. The website and a historical travel guidebook to be released May 15, also are part of the celebration of Pittsburgh's 250th anniversary.


2/15/2008

Go To Preceding Article     Go To Next Article

Return to This PA Environment Digest's Main Page