Tidings from “le Jardin du Soldat Fort de la Rivière au Bœuf”
The “Soldier’s Garden” at Fort LeBoeuf sprung to life back in 2019. Its purpose is to help tell the story of the hardships soldiers faced while garrisoned at the fort. Supply chain issues caused frequent food shortages, which in turn caused nutritional deficiencies for the men. The result was hunger, followed by sickness, and even death for many. Out of necessary soldiers were strongly encouraged to tend gardens, and many did. Today’s garden is believed to be in the same location as one of the original gardens. The entire area covers roughly 20,000 square feet and includes a replica soldier’s hut. On our historic campus it is situated directly behind the George Washington Statue Park and Eagle Hotel. All of the seed and plant varieties used, as well as the horticultural tools and techniques, have been thoroughly researched to be as authentic to the 18th Century as possible. Visitors to the garden have an opportunity to learn through multiple hands-on activities ranging from; sowing seeds to carrying out routine chores, such as weeding and watering. Because of the range of seasons in our region, there is always something new to experience in the garden. Expansion goals for 2022 include; planting a small orchard of period apple varieties, enlarge our “Haudenosaunee”or “Three Sisters” display garden, and continue adding to our existing medicinal herbs collection.
Offered programming in the Soldiers Garden:
- Horticultural Practices in the 18th Century
- French “Potager” or Kitchen Gardens
- Soldiers Rations During the French & Indian war
- Cooking on Open Fire Demonstrations
- Vegetables & Herbs of the 1700’s
Also follow us to learn about these upcoming garden events:
- Spring Herb Plant Sale
- 18th Century Tea in the Garden
- Fall Harvest Luncheon & Lecture
To arrange a visit or to schedule a program for your classroom or organization contact:
Donald Pearce / 18th Century Horticulturalist – Fort LeBoeuf French & Indian War Museum
Email: [email protected] or Phone: (814)860-0221
Follow on FaceBook: The 18th Century Gardener