ORWELL — Mount Independence State Historic site in Orwell on Saturday, May 7, at 1 p.m., will host a special guided walk on and off the trails to explore Revolutionary War military strategy and some of the remains of the defensive works from 1776 and 1777 that are most visible in spring before full leaf. 
Revolutionary War expert Mike Barbieri, Mount Independence Coalition President Stephen Zeoli, and site administrator Elsa Gilbertson lead the program. American construction of Mount Independence began 240 years ago, when American officers agreed in June 1776 to concentrate their efforts in protecting Lake Champlain and New England on a major new defensive system on this “strong ground” peninsula.
This is one of many programs this year to celebrate the 240th anniversary of the fort, as well as the 50th anniversary of the trail system.
Meet at the museum for orientation. Wear sturdy shoes or boots, be prepared to go off trail, dress for the weather, and bring water if you like. This special event brings you to this historic site before opening on Saturday, May 28. 
The program is co-sponsored by the Mount Independence Coalition and Vermont Division for Historic Preservation. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 15. Call 802-759-2412 for more information.
The Mount Independence State Historic Site, one of the best preserved Revolutionary War archaeological sites, is part of the Vermont State Historic Sites system. It is located at 497 Mount Independence Road, six miles west of the intersections of Vermont Routes 22A and 73 near Orwell village. Carefully follow the signs. The site will open for the regular season on Saturday, May 28. Regular hours will be 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Oct. 12.
For more information about the Vermont State-owned Historic Sites, visit: www.historicsites.vermont.gov.