Mapped location of Washington's Trail - 1753

Washington's Trail - 1753

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Overview

George Washington’s influence was monumental in our country. He had a hand in the start of the French & Indian War, an important role in the Revolutionary War, and the establishment of our government. As well as being our first president, his presence directed many aspects of our nation’s growth.

The French & Indian War is an important part of our nation’s history and in keeping with that significance, Washington’s Trail 1753 works to raise public awareness of young George Washington’s first military and diplomatic venture in the fall and winter of 1753-1754.

About Washington’s Mission:
In 1753, the English, French and Native Americans laid claim to the Ohio Country (present-day Western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio), all of which was wilderness and had been Native American territory. Twenty-one-year old George Washington was chosen to undertake a dangerous expedition into the wilderness where the only villages were Indian, the roads were merely paths, the weather was unpredictable, and winter was just days away. Chosen for the journey by Virginia’s governor, Robert Dinwiddie, Washington’s assignment was to demand the French end their occupation of the region. Leaving Williamsburg, VA, he would carry a letter to the commanding officer at Fort LeBoeuf (near present-day Erie, PA) demanding the French depart from the Ohio Country because “the Lands upon the River Ohio in the Western Parts of the Colony of Virginia are so notoriously known to be the Property of the Crown of Great Britain.” By this time in history, the French had already erected three forts to reinforce their claim to the region as part of New France: Presque Isle (Erie), LeBoeuf (Waterford) and Machault (Franklin). He traveled through western Pennsylvania in the winter of 1753-54.

About Washington's Trail: Large circular blue and white markers with Washington’s profile have been erected along several likely routes of his famous trip, extending from the MD/PA border, through 10 counties, including Butler, to Fort LeBoeuf, Waterford, Erie County. You can then follow the return trip which takes a somewhat different path.
Traversing modern highways, the route primarily follows major roads. In some areas, there are alternate historic or scenic routes suggested that may more closely align with Washington’s travel in the fall of 1753, and these are likely to be back roads. Relive Washington’s first military expedition – retrace the steps of our first president, and take advantage of the historic and natural attractions along the way.

Brochures are available to guide you along the trail including one for an audio tour through Butler County, and another by Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau packed with history and fascinating facts in the county. Pick one up at the tourism office in Zelienople, or visit Washington’s Trail | Brochures.

Brochures and Guides

Amenities

Amenities

  • Brochure Rack Program

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