A Revolutionary War Weekend at Mount Independence

On August 31 and September 1, 2019, head to the Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell, Vermont, for the annual “Soldiers Atop the Mount” living history weekend. Reenactors and those interested in history gather to engage visitors with a colorful, full scale event honoring this major Revolutionary War fortification built and occupied first by the Americans and then British and Germans during the 1776-77 Northern Campaign of the American Revolution.

Interactive activities and vibrant demonstrations bring to life the historic ground of Mount Independence. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for walking. On Saturday, the popular Baldwin Trail walkabout returns. From 11:30 am to 2:00 pm visitors traverse this packed stone trail and some of the grounds to meet reenactors and other experts who will discuss such topics as Revolutionary gunsmithing, the life of the soldiers, building and defending the gun batteries, and more. Get your card stamped and win a small token if you visit all the stations. The event is open each day at 9:30, with the soldier’s camps opening at 10:00 am, closing Saturday at 5:00 and on Sunday at 2:00 pm. Reenactors offer military tacticals, camp life, and colonial skills and crafts. Special hands-on children’s activities are available both days.

The military tacticals includes a woods skirmish with a guide you can follow. On Saturday visitors are invited to participate in the Mount Independence Revolutionary history “mask”querade, focusing on the people who played important roles here.

On Sunday special offerings include  the recreation, at 10:30, the October 20, 1776, sermon preached on Mount Independence by Chaplain William Tenent. and later the annual reading of the Declaration of Independence, for which the Mount is named.

Site interpreter and historian Paul Andriscin offers an illustrated talk on the back story of Mount Independence, “Reasons for Revolution” on Saturday at 4:00 pm and on Sunday at 3:30 pm an illustrated talk, “The Northern Campaign.”

Event admission is $6.00 for adults and free for children under 15, and includes the museum. Call 802-948-2000 for details. Beverages and light snacks are available for purchase in the museum shop.

Call (802) 948-2000 for more information or visit www.HistoricSites.vermont.gov   Join the Vermont State Historic Sites conversation on Facebook.