Washington's Mission In 1753, the imperial nations of France and England and Native Americans claimed the Ohio Country, the area encompassing present-day western Pennsylvania ad eastern Ohio. Acting on orders from Virginia Governor Robert Dinwiddie, twenty-one year old George Washington embarked upon a dangerous expedition through the region, traveling through what would become Butler County, Pennsylvania. Washington's assignment was to deliver a diplomatic message to the French ordering them to evacuate the region. Already the French had erected three forts to reinforce their claim to the area: Fort Presque Isle (Erie, Pennsylvania), Fort LeBoeuf (Waterford, Pennsylvania), and Fort Malchault (Franklin, Pennsylvania). During his journey to the French forts, young Washington encountered many hazards, including "Excessive Rains and Snow," being fired upon by an Indian near Harmony, PA, and near drowning in the icy waters of the Allegheny River. When Washington returned to Williamsburg, Virginia, he reported to the governor that the French intended to remain entrenched in the Ohio Country. This marked the beginning of the military struggle known as the French and Indian War. The Washington Trail Committee has taken steps to erect historical markers along Washington's route and to provide recreational activities for the public. Come to Butler County, and relive Washington's first military expedition. Retrace the steps of our first president: hike, bike and drive through historic and beautiful Butler County, Pennsylvania. | |
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