I love the old stone fort at Fort Frederick State Park. It was built in the 1700s as a frontier fort, was abandoned after just a few years, then was owned by a former slave, was used as a farm, eventually fell into dis-repair, and finally, was rebuilt by the CCC in the 1930's and had buildings re-constructed in 1976 as part of the bicentennial.Today, the place is a nice, rare, stone fort that tells a special history. It is important while visiting, to see the displays in the side building, which show artifacts of the period of use, and of the CCC reconstruction time, and also to see the 10 minute video in the visitor's center.During the prime season, there is a docent in the fort for interpretive history and black powder rifle demonstration, and outside of prime, one can call ahead and coordinate a visit. For a small, $5 per car donation, a whole family or group may visit the fort.
The exhibits inside the fort and been thoughtfully created to show what life in the fort would have been like. In addition the fort is staffed by guides in period costume who do a great job of bringing it to life - so much more interesting than reading sign-boards.
It's hard to believe when visiting Ft. Frederick that this was a military installation that saw action in the Revolutionary, as well as Civil Wars. The setting is so peaceful and calm that a zen spirit rules the area.In the Summer months, you will be lucky to see docents in period dress that can give you plenty of the history of the place.A short hike away is the C n O Canal and Big Pool.
This fort, fully rebuilt and restored, goes back to colonial times, prior to the American Revolution. George Washington passed through as a British officer. This fort was at one time on the frontier. It is a charming state park that is easily accessed from I 70 by car, by boat on the Potomac River or by foot from the C&O Canal National Park. It provides an excellent look at colonial life. Also many recreatioonal activities are available at the state and national parks. Beautiful any time of the year.
From it's stout stone walls this fort guarded a pass and it's trail through the nearby mountains for over a hundred years. A glimpse into the past, you can see what it was like to stationed hereon America's frontier.
I have visited Fort Frederick on several occasions for their living history events. The fort itself is a great place to take pictures or just to walk around. There are so many opportunities during the year to see encampments of different reenactor groups from the Revolutionary War to the Civil War. There is always something to see and learn at these events. I've had some marvelous conversations and taken lots of great pictures with the people there. The $3 fee per car is a real value.
Visited on a Friday and the biggest surprise was how empty it was. Admission was $6 for an out of state car load! Inside the spectacular fort are 2 recreated buildings. There were several costumed guides who explained what life was like in the fort during colonial days. From the fort you can walk to the canal. There is a small nature museum (more of a shed where small children can explore exhibits). There is a camp store and souvenir shop that was closed for lunch while we were there. I would have loved to visit while an event or an encampment was occurring but even without, it was a pleasant visit.
This is a small scenic fort. I like to visit every September when they fire the cannons. Don't bring anyone with Asthma or COPD. The black powder makes alot of smoke.
We enjoyed visiting one of the last remaining stone forts constructed during the French and Indian war in this country.
We have cycled to Fort Frederick many times from nearby Western Maryland Rail Trail. Really exciting to see how people lived in colonel time. Very enjoyable side trip!