Autumn Arrives

It's been a mild fall here in the Ohio Valley. There hasn't been any frost and the leaves are not showing off their colorful splendor this year. But the warmer days allow us to do much-needed repairs on some of the buildings and begin decorating for the holiday season.

The soldiers based at Fort Steuben in the fall of 1786 were scrambling to construct their winter lodgings before the cold weather set in. After camping out in the wilderness most of the summer, Captain Hamtramck realized his men would need sturdy shelter as he suspected the weather would change. And sure enough, it did and they faced a foot of snow at the beginning of November. But those ax-adept soldiers managed to get most of the buildings completed in time.

Now Historic Fort Steuben stands as a tribute to their hardiness and the good planning of their leaders. We uphold their legacy and continue to make history accessible to all. This past month we have welcomed individuals, school groups, adult groups, and families to tour the fort, study our exhibits, and learn a little about what has formed our nation and community. Membership in the Old Fort Steuben Project is a way to support our efforts and keep alive the memories of those who have gone before us. Please consider becoming a member, renewing your membership, or simply donating to our efforts in "Keeping History Alive!"