Fort Laurens sits at the intersection of the Great Trail and The Tuscarawas river. It was an active military instalation from November of 1778 to August 1779. It was built to support a raid of the Indian villages along Lake Erie. 172 Men and women spent the winter of 1778 here awaiting he return of General McIntosh to complete the raid. During that time it was attacked several times by the British and Indians.
With the British in Detroit and the various Indian tribes aligning with both sides there was an active frontier war in Ohio. The war was very different from that fought on the east coast and the story is worth exploring.
This is one of the few sites in Ohio that has ties to the Revolutionary War. The fort doesnt stand today however the outline is identified and the museum does a good job of telling the story.
The site has the only Tomb of an Unknown American Patriot in the country. There are 20 Patriots buried at the site making it one of the most significant military history sites in the state.
Over the years Rt 77 and the Ohio and Erie canal were constructed thru the site. There are markers showing the construction of each. The site also has access to the towpath.
This is one of my personal favorites and its right off Rt 77. I stop here to break up longer trips and stretch my legs.
Several of these photos were taken during Revolution on the Tuscarawas: A Military Encampment at Fort Laurens This is an anual event and a great time to visit. Unfortunately the renactors are not there every weekend.
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Where
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Bolivar Ohio 11053 Ft Laurens Rd
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GPS Coord
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N40.63950 W81.45680
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Restrooms |
Yes Indoor and outdoor both clean and maintained |
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Food and drink |
Vending machines and water onsite for drinks. Many restaraunts by highway exit. Great place for a picnic several shelters on site. |
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Parking |
Paved in good shape easy access
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Other
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Small charge for the museum. Park is free. |
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Cautions
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None |
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County
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Tuscarawas
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Websites other Links
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www.ohiohistory.org/places/ftlauren www.friendsoffortlaurens.org |
Return to the central east region by clicking on the map
Return to the 16 and 1700'sClick on the picture on the left.
