Take a step back in time at Fort Loudoun State Historic Park’s Cherokee Victory Garrison Weekend, slated for Aug. 11-12. Free and open to the public, the weekend will blend educational opportunities with a full roster of fun family-friendly activities. Activities will kick off at 10 a.m. both days, ending at 5 p.m. on Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday.
“We have exciting opportunities for all ages and we encourage everyone to come and see the history of Fort Loudoun’s final days brought to life,” said Park Manager Eric Hughey.
The Garrison Weekend will begin with a “roll call,” summoning re-enactment soldiers to their posts just as it would have been done 250 years ago. Throughout the day costumed living history re-enactors will go about their garrison duties, while taking time to interact with visitors.
Demonstrations of a variety of crafts and skills will be held throughout the weekend, including old-fashioned laundering, blacksmithing and artillery drills. Park visitors will get to see an 18th century infirmary, as well as soldiers’ barracks, the commander’s quarters and a Cherokee encampment.
The Visitor Center and Museum at Fort Loudoun will be open both days. Participants can watch a short film on the history of Fort Loudoun and view some of the artifacts recovered from this historic site. The Fort’s gift shop and bookstore also will be open for visitors to find that unique souvenir.
Fort Loudoun State Historic Area is a 1,200-acre site on the location of one of the earliest British fortifications on the western frontier, built in 1756. Nearby were the principle towns of the Cherokee Nation including Tenase, namesake of our state, and Tuskegee, birthplace of Sequoyah. Today the fort and the 1794 Tellico Blockhouse overlook TVA's Tellico Reservoir and the Appalachian Mountains.
For more information about the Cherokee Victory Garrison Weekend or for a complete schedule of events, please contact the Fort Loudoun State Historic Area office at 423 884-6217 or visit the website at www.fortloudoun.com. For more information about Fort Loudon State Historic Area and Tennessee State Parks, please visit www.tnstateparks.com.
Tennessee's 54 state parks and 82 state natural areas offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free at 888 867-2757. For upcoming events in connection with the 75th Anniversary of Tennessee State Parks this year, please visit the parks' innovate new microsite at www.tnstateparks75.com.