American Indian Heritage Month at Fort Frederick

Park Programming Nov. 4 and 5

Ever wondered who the Indians were that fought in the French and Indian War? You can find out yourself at Historic Fort Frederick State Park Nov. 4 and 5, 2017.

Discover the tale of the Cherokee Indians who worked with Maryland forces to defeat the French and their allies, the Shawnee and Delaware.

“This special program examines the story of the Cherokee during their time at Fort Frederick,” Park Ranger Bob Study said. “The war was much more complex than most people realize; it was not only a struggle for North America but a clash of diverse cultures, which ultimately shaped the country and continent.”

Highlights of the weekend program include:

• Flag raising ceremony at 10 a.m.
• Trade Gun Firing Demonstrations at 12:30, 1, 3:30 and 4 p.m.
• The Cherokee at Fort Frederick at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Volunteer Company Drill at noon and 3 p.m.
• Flag lowering ceremony at 4:30 p.m.

The French and Indian War, which was fought between 1756 and 1763, changed the fabric and landscape of the North American continent forever. The war, which pitched the French and their Indian allies against the British and their Indian allies, brought destruction to the Maryland frontier. As a result, the colony of Maryland constructed Fort Frederick in 1756 as its main line of defense.

There is a service charge of $3 for residents and $5 for nonresidents. Disabled access is available; however, most of the event activities are situated on grassy areas that may present difficulty.