ORWELL — Revolutionary War soldiers return to the Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell the weekend of Sept. 10-11, for the annual “Soldiers Atop the Mount” living history weekend.
This year the event celebrates the 240th anniversary of the start of American construction of this major Revolutionary War defense. Visitors are invited to step back in time and experience the tent encampment and camp life, military tactics, colonial skills and more.
Special highlights on Saturday are the first ever 5K walk to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mount Independence trail system and the Baldwin Trail walkabout from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Experts will be located at stations around the trail to talk with visitors and bring to life the history that happened in that location. Visitors will get a card stamped and win a small token if they visit all the stations. At noon there will be a modest “Revolutionary lunch” in the picnic area for attendees, donations appreciated.
Re-enactors will offer a soldier’s camp, which opens on Saturday at 10 a.m. and closes on Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The weekend includes military tactical and artillery demonstrations (weather permitting), and activities for children. The annual reading of the Declaration of Independence, for which the Mount is named, is on Sunday at 12:30 p.m., followed by the unveiling of a military road sign. Site interpreter and historian Paul Andriscin will offer illustrated talks both afternoons.
Admission is $6 for adults and free for children under 15, and includes admission to the museum. Call 948-2000 for details. Beverages and light snacks will be available for purchase in the museum shop. This event is one of many being held during September’s Vermont Archaeology Month.
Mount Independence, a National Historic Landmark, is near the end of Mount Independence Road, six miles west of the intersection of Routes 22A and 73 in Orwell. It includes an air conditioned museum and six miles of hiking trails. It is open daily through Columbus Day, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 948-2000 for more information or visit www.HistoricSites.vermont.gov.