Growing up with the Daniel Boone story as a kid, I still have that theme song dancing around my head ….
For those who want to recall, here it is:
This past weekend, we traveled to central Kentucky to visit Berea College. Wonderful place, terrific visit. Encourage you to visit and stay in the Historic Boone Tavern Lodge in Berea KY. If you want to learn more about the Berea area, check out the following link:
During our trip, we stopped at Fort Boonesborough just south of Lexington KY, about two hours south of the Cincinnati metro area.
Unfortunately, the Fort was closed, however I was able to gain a glimpse of the replica fort and captured some literature and did some late night internet reading.
Little did I know that Fort Boonesborough was under siege a couple of times during the Revolutionary War period (1777 & 1778). I was not aware that these battles occurred at that time. My understanding was that Native Americans were attacking the fort, however I did not understand that they were supported and supplied by the British military.
We were disappointed that the site was not open for visitors, however plan on making a trip to stop there during our frequent trips to Atlanta.
Tours through the park look like they run from April through October.
There is a website to learn more about the programs and events.
https://parks.ky.gov/explore/fort-boonesborough-state-park-7811
https://www.fortboonesboroughlivinghistory.org/html/_event_schedule.html
A couple of events coming up later this year may be worth the trip to visit and learn.
The 1778 Siege of Fort Boonesborough September 14th-15th Saturday and Sunday – battle re-enactment at 2 pm each day. Come early and spend the day learning about 18th century life in Kentucky, and visit the Native camps also.
An 18th Century Christmas – Friday Dec. 6, 6-9, Sat. Dec. 7 1-4 See and hear about old world customs and other early frontier holiday traditions and foods. Enjoy the Christmas guns, bonfires, music and more. Refreshments included! This is a Fort Boonesborough Foundation sponsored event. Admission is $8 for Adults and $5 for children (6-12). Children under 6- free.
In Ohio, we have Fort Laurens up in Bolivar Ohio which efforts continue to create a recreation of that Revolutionary War era fort. Fort Laurens also was under siege by Native Americans supported by the British. Fort Boonesborough should be an inspiration and model for that effort.
We were disappointed we could not go inside yet got a glimpse of the fort and the promise for an interesting trip.
Once I am able to take the tour during warmer months, I can share an update.
Until then, you will have that jingle dancing around in your head, at least I do.
