George Washington Historic Hike

History comes alive when the public can join French and Indian War re-enactors to commemorate George Washington’s 1753 travels through Butler Country. Hikers will enjoy fresh air, great Moraine State Park scenery, and witness the drama of the gunshot that could have ended Washington’s life when he was just 21 years old. 

The annual commemoration is sponsored by the Harmony Museum, The Old Stone House and Washington’s Trail 1753. It starts and ends at the picnic shelter next to McDanels Boat Launch in the northwest corner of the park, accessed from West Park Road just off U.S. 19 and U.S. 422 north of Portersville. Plenty of parking is available.

Back in November 1753, young Washington, newly commissioned a major by Virginia Lt. Gov. Robert Dinwiddie, volunteered to travel through Ohio Country territory to demand withdrawal of the French who were building forts on land also claimed by England and its Virginia Colony. French officers suggested instead that the British stay out of New France. The ultimatum Washington carried, as well as the military intelligence he obtained, were instrumental in starting the French and Indian War the following spring. 

Besides the one-hour hike, this year’s commemorative event includes refreshments, re-enactors of the 42nd Regiment of Foote, and the opportunity to discuss history with re-enactors playing the roles of Washington and his frontiersman guide, Christopher Gist. Author Brady Crytzer will also be on hand to sell, sign and discuss his book, "Major Washington’s Pittsburgh and the Mission to Fort Le Beouf".

The event starts at 9:30 a.m., with guided hikes planned for 10 and 11 a.m. and noon. Leading each hike will be a Slippery Rock University history student who will read from the journals of Washington and Gist and explain the significance of Washington’s hazardous journey. 

Hiking slot reservations can be made by phoning the Harmony Museum at 724-452-7341. Admission is $5 per person, $12 per family, $15 for groups of five or more; payment will be collected at the event. Each hiking group will be limited in size, so participants are urged to reserve start times. The hike will cover about a mile of sometimes hilly, muddy terrain that is close to the historic Venango Path Indian trail followed by Washington. Hikers are advised to wear appropriate footwear as well as clothing suitable for the day’s weather conditions.