A Revolutionary War Weekend at Mount Independence
ORWELL, VT — On August 31 and September 1, the Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell, hosts the annual “Soldiers Atop the Mount” living history weekend. Reenactors and those interested in history engage visitors with a colorful, full-scale event honoring this major Revolutionary War fortification built and occupied first by the Americans, and then by British and Germans during the 1776-77 Northern Campaign.
The event is open each day at 9:30a.m., with the soldier’s camps opening at 10:00a.m., and closing on Saturday at 5:00p.m. and on Sunday at 2:00p.m. Interactive activities and demonstrations bring to life the historic grounds of Mount Independence. Visitors can observe military tacticals, and learn about camp life, colonial skills, and crafts. Special hands-on children’s activities are available both days.
On Saturday, the popular Baldwin Trail walkabout returns. From 11:30a.m. to 2:00p.m. visitors walk this trail to meet reenactors and history experts who will discuss Revolutionary gunsmithing, the life of soldiers, and the building and defending of the gun batteries. Get your card stamped and receive a small token if you visit all the stations. Join the Mount Independence Revolutionary history “mask”querade, focusing on the people who played important roles at the 1776-77 Northern Campaign here. Site interpreter and historian Paul Andriscin offers an illustrated talk on the back story of Mount Independence, “Reasons for Revolution” on Saturday at 4:00p.m.
On Sunday at 10:30a.m., there is a recreation of the October 20, 1776 sermon preached on Mount Independence by Chaplain William Tenent. Afterwards, join the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence for which the Mount is named. Paul Andriscin will speak on the “Northern Campaign,” on Sunday at 3:30p.m.
Event admission is $6.00 for adults and free for children under 15; this includes a visit to the museum. Call 802-948-2000 for details. Beverages and light snacks are available for purchase in the museum shop.
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About Mount Independence
American forces constructed Mount Independence in 1776 and 1777 to defend New England and Lake Champlain from the British enemy in Canada. On the night of July 5 and 6, 1777, the American Army Northern Department withdrew from Mount Independence and Fort Ticonderoga, as British Lt. Gen. John Burgoyne attempted to split New England off from the rest of the United States. Following the Battle of Hubbardton on July 7, the British and Germans occupied Mount Independence until November.
Mount Independence, a National Historic Landmark, is near the end of Mount Independence Road, six miles west of the intersection of Vermont Routes 22A and 73 in Orwell. It includes an air-conditioned museum and six miles of hiking trails. It is open daily through October 13, 10:00a.m. to 5:00p.m.
Call (802) 948-2000 for more information or visit www.HistoricSites.vermont.gov Join the Vermont State Historic Sites conversation on Facebook.
About the Division for Historic Preservation
The Vermont State Historic Sites are owned and operated by the Division for Historic Preservation, which is part of the Department of Housing and Community Development. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) works to support vibrant and resilient communities, promote safe and affordable housing for all, protect the state’s historic resources, and improve the quality of life for Vermonters.
About the Agency of Commerce and Community Development
The mission of ACCD is to help Vermonters improve their quality of life and build strong communities. ACCD accomplishes this mission by providing grants, technical assistance, and advocacy through three divisions: The Department of Economic Development, the Department of Tourism and Marketing, and the Department of Housing and Community Development. For more information on ACCD please visit: accd.vermont.gov.