Excursion To Bedford

    I am excited to be back with you for another post. I hope you all had a very special holiday and New Year!

  
    A Quick Word

    There hasn't been a fresh post for a few weeks and I realize this might be frustrating to visitors.

   My point of view concerns the attitude of posting within a particular time frame. Meaning, instead of rushing posts willy-nilly, ignoring mistakes, I sometimes choose to take a while to be certain they fit the season and month, maybe a holiday and a  perceived date, kept within my own comfort zone. I'm taking a little too long - maybe so! I take as long a span as I feel is needed. The amount of days and weeks that are required. A quirk of mine. That might seem like a cop out, and I admit the idea is hard to nail down or describe very well, but that's how it is.

   Try to look into the past of the blog now and again. Then look forward to an article that hopefully will contain a certain degree of substance while it fits into the surroundings of the year; not too early and not too late. Every time I polish up a post, whether with a photo, a finishing paragraph, or occasionally an added touch of research in the right portion, I feel a minor sense of accomplishment because you are watching for and judging the level of value that is or is not attained.The same kind of consideration as when relating information about the counties of Westmoreland and Fayette, dear to my heart and soul. There's a ton of patriotic pride canvasing Pennsylvania as well. What other state has Valley Forge and Gettysburg?

   With that mini-statement having been said, we are now going to do a switch in giving a handful of details of a place far afield from the usual research and study: back east, in Bedford. Surprised? Don't be.


    ALL IN A DAY

 
    Off We Go

   On an early autumn morning of 2016 with off and on rainy weather, I left on a trip east on Route 31 through Somerset to Bedford county and the Glades Pike.and further east. I had put off the journey for way too long, believe me.

                       

    A year and a half ago, (it's difficult to believe e post was uploaded that long ago), Fayette/Westmoreland Forgotten History carried a post entitled "Excursion To Somerset." We do pass through the same county again, this time to throw some light on Bedford County. Specifically Bedford, the old county seat. Do bear with me, it's been a long time since I've done a post of this sort, now hasn't it?

                                                                    
     First off, the structure was constructed in the summer of 1758 and rebuilt in the Bicentennial of 1958. Originally, on the best of information, Fort Bedford, named after the Duke of Bedford,  was a sturdy log fortress of star shaped design, built under the command of Colonel Bouquet during the French and Indian War in Bedford. The same basic location as Raystown, a trading post. The fort protected locals from Indian depredations and raiding parties. A large portion of southwestern Pennsylvania was once within the bounds of Bedford County. That is a fact.  Amazingly, the famed James Smith, Indian fighter and war hero, with his 'Black Boys' or the 'Brave Fellows' once captured the fort and Smith notoriously was once a prisoner here as well. Interestingly, eh represented Westmoreland County at the 1776 Contitutional Convention. More on this storied man 'down the road' and  'around the bend.'         

     In 1756, the fort experienced French and Indian troubles at the same time as Fort Ligonier.

    The main destination was the Fort Bedford Museum. Hours are 10:00 a. m. to 5:00. p. m.

                          

On the way out of Fayette County on Route 31

      It was a good day for me, as I didn't work. Always a fairly good day! My old camera and some snacks accompanied me along with some family members. I had previously contacted the Museum. So far, so good. I had failed to discover that Bedford Village was not open on a Wednesday while the Museum actually IS! OK. Well, my bad, however access to both might appear to be a reasonable assumption to make for one or the other on the same day.

     The excursion was really another step in a more recent plan to become better acquainted with the forts of this grand region. I decided this would be a fair place to continue another aspect of research and also have a bit of fun.

                                             

Near Schellsburg I knew I was getting close to my purpose

                        

  On the way we passed a few historical sites of interest which includes the Bonnet Tavern at the old Rt. 30 and Rt. 31 intersection:

                    

        The tavern was erected by Robert Callender, an Indian trader, on lands he has purchased in 1762. It was a hotbed of protest during the Whiskey Rebellion.

                                                           
                                              

The cabin out behind Jean Bonnet Tavern

       The Bedford countryside:

                       

                                   

                                                

Everett or Bedford?

   Oddly enough, while checking Google Maps I discovered the fort is shown to be located at a different site than is traditionally known: directly behind the Museum. The truth may come as a surprise to many. The actual location is disputed and under a cloud of doubt.

   Bedford was settled as early as 1751 and laid out in 1766. The borough was incorporated in 1795.


             

      
     Take a closer look and you will see what puzzles me here:

                                  

According to Google this is the site of the fort

   The Bedford Museum: 


                                             

The museum is off Juliana Street

                                                           

Was the parking lot reserved for only silver and white cars?

                                                   

The Raystown Branch of the Juniata River

              

YA! They didn't suddenly close for repairs!

                                              

                                                                
           
                                             
     On arriving and making a donation to the cause, I met Jade, the receptionist, a very nice person, although she wasn't into email. She told me the basics and said we could look around on our own if we didn't mind. I was also informed that photography was not an issue. I thank the Fort Bedford and The Bedford Heritage Trust folks for kindly allowing this opportunity to post some of their fascinating items they have carefully examined, collected and catalogued.

                                  

 Here are the stocks in case someone gets out of line:

                        

Believe me, you will want to take a trip of your own some fine day and see this for yourselves,; there is much more to be discovered than I am giving a glimpse of here!


                            

A vintage cigar store type Indian near the entrance

    I shared some of what we observed for ourselves. Pardon me, the photos are not even up to my usual average standard as the rooms were rather dimly lit. Quite a bit of history is contained there in spite of nothing at the Indian Artifact Exhibit as of yet.


                             

No Indian artifacts. A reason to return!

                           

                                            

olden trunk

                                   

1879 drawing of the town and fort

Fort Bedford map

                                                  

                                            

What a priceless possession

British encampment artifacts

                 
         

painting of Braddock's wounding

                                            

An early 1900's sleigh

                                            

                                                

saber, bayonet and a powder horn

                                      

                                  

medals of a local hero

                                       
                                                    

miniature display of the ancient fortifications

                                                     

two trappers, hunters and fishermen, brothers of mine

                          

the conestoga wagon on display

                      
                                                  

frontal view of wagon with no one standing in the way

                                                  

nothing like these exquisite, old rifles, eh?

                                       
                                         

now that is a GUN!

                                                     

                    
                                                                

Griffen field gun

                                              

old time stove and heater

 

                                                    
    I bought a couple of 'souvenirs' at the gift shop for my growing collection which I'll upload later.

    Before moving on, I want to show the traditional site of Fort Bedford and the reconstruction of the fort itself. At one time, it housed as many as 800 men.

                   

                                                                                

These stones may be what is left of the outer wall

     Following along the Bedford Path southerly of the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, we quickly arrive at the 'fort' location:

                          

you are...HERE

                                 

Ol', new Fort Bedford

                                     

Reconstructed fort wall on north side

                
                                                    

                                                    

Fort walkway

                            

     There are many significant sights surrounding this location. Being limited time wise except for a quick stop at the Bedford Tavern, a few photos would have to suffice.

                Some of the preserved houses and buildings:

                             

                                        

Old Bedford town

                                         

                                                            

Penn Street

 

A storied building, the Bedford Courthouse

                                        

Oops !

                                         

The SQUARES of William Penn

    Many illustrious and prominent political figures stayed here, especially at the Bedford Springs Hotel, (shown below).

    This includes such famous people as, President James Buchanan, William Henry Harrison, Zachary Taylor, Benjamin Harrison, James Polk and Rutheford B. Hayes. The list could go on. They all came here along the Lincoln Highway back in the 1800's.

                                                      

The modern Bedford Springs Hotel

    My personal feelings about Bedford couldn't be higher. What a wonderful town, brimming with tourists, well kept buildings and stores; a pleasant atmosphere to spend time in.

   One particular site that intrigued me most was the Espy House, at 123 East Pitt St. built in 1766.

   It was named after David Espy, a friend of Washington. 'The Father of our Country' stayed here and kept his headquarters in 1794 during the famous Whiskey Rebellion. The Espy House was also claimed to be General Arthur St. Clair's office when he was active here.

   Provided are a few views over the years:

                                           

                                

                                   

courtesy of explorehistory.com

                             

Espy House on East Pitt.St.

          
According to tradition, the window George Washington had his private quarters is below:
                       

    Afterward, driving a few miles up Rt. 220, or the cut off of N. Richard St over Rt. 30. and hanging  a left onto Sawblad Rd, I tried to enter Bedford Village and, unfortunately, found it was...CLOSED. A somewhat disappointing experience. Frankly, a bit of a bust:

                                 

                                          
                                                            

Bedford Village contains an old Monongahela Indian site

                                       

I shall return!

                              


     At least I could check out Claycombe covered bridge:

                           

Claycombe covered bridge

                              

                                     

    In the afternoon I took the time to get over to Hoke-E-Geez big flea market down on 145 Bedford Plaza Rd. There's a real variety in their wares. I added a few more items of some historical value along with a few old coins of monetary value too. Nothing that rare, I just get a hankering for a few now and then.Well, the items will probably be enumerated on another post anyway.

   No, the day wasn't near through. Nope. There was more to search out and discover before calling it quits. That's another topical tale...

   Thanks for the patronage! Have you learned something of interest?

   I plan to see you soon for more articles of this ilk. As always, please write to me, and better yet, COMMENT on the blog posts and give your opinions and ideas! You deserve to be heard.


                                    (To Be Continued )    
  

Christmas Festivals marking a 4th year

     I have some faith. Even in humanity. Maybe only that some of you have enjoyed the Questions and the Answers to the History Contest of the last few posts. Hope and faith can hold much more than that, of course.

     So...I enjoyed it and trust others did too.


      For this upload I admit to of been just that close to providing another thorough installment that might be a tad overdue. A deeper layer of regional historical significance toward a larger, more in depth study. The very type which have hopefully made their mark on this here blog.

     Then, with the whip of a snow flurry,  a touch of frosty cold, I rather suddenly took a turn and thought about the holiday. As in previous years. Here and Here.

     A precious time it is.

     As we approach further into the holiday season, of hustle and bustle, I also enter farther into the fourth year of my own brand of blogging. This was enough to make my mind up to throw out something else. A simple tribute to a revered and wonderful season, just on the sentimental side.

    Right now, probably like many others, I'm facing a BUNCH of gift wrapping, ribbons, tags; (not to mention the baking), although I did much of my Christmas shopping online. But, not all of it! It's time to get out the vintage holiday sounds of Bing Crosby and Andy Williams. Or, download music to your taste with corresponding streaming video from the internet by phone, i pad, memory stick, etc., and honor the spirit of it all. While we ready ourselves for a partly, or completely traditional holiday, (those from other countries with no interest, atheists, party poopers and whatnot, all we can say is, ignore this or better yet, get on board the Christmas train!), finish placing the beautiful decorations in their proper niches.

   Before moving on, I pray let's not overlook the obvious:

   the real and holy meaning of Christ's birth and purposes on earth behind all the hype and glamour of our preparations.

       Below, are a only a handful of winter options to choose from.

      A sample located in Westmoreland County certainly could include the following:

      They call it "An Old Fashioned Christmas Tradition", and the Overly's Family Christmas has been at it for a long time. The prices begin at $15.00, Sunday thru Thursday, 5:30 p. m.- 9:00 p. m, 10:00 o'clock on weekends.  A lot has been added on over time. With train rides, carol singing and photos with Santa, the whole evening experience will be available until the New Year of 2017. Their operating schedule is here. You can also contribute to the Care and Comfort Campaign for destitue animals at the Admission Gate. They're at the Westmoreland Fairgrounds on 115 Blue Ribbon Lane, Greensburg.

    The Laurel Ballet Performing Company is presenting "The Nutcracker" at the Palace Theater, also in Greeensburg.  The phone number for tickets is 724-836-8000.

    If it's a bit late to make that one, check out "A Christmas Carol" at The Geyer Performing Arts Center at 111 Pittsburgh Street in good ol' Scottdale. The dates are Dec. 15-18. Tickets are available.

   The Westmoreland Heritage site has an events calendar where the whole month of events can be looked into for more ideas.


   Next, let's take a gander at a couple of items from Fayette County:

   Santa will be at the Uniontown Public Library on by 1:30 p. m. on Dec. 17! SO, let the kids check him out. I hear the Nativity in the Pennsylvania Room is really a special sight. Many libraries contribute in various ways to the season, so allow some attention for your local ones as well.
  
    For those wishing for a more classic experience, the Bessontown Singers will be performing Handel's MESSIAH. Yep, with choir and orchestra, at the St. Peter's Church on Dec. 11, at 5:00 sharp.This promises to be an inspiring evening.

 
                       
             

      One little request, please don't forget to donate to your favorite charity. If someone isn't sure which one, then I suggest something like The Salvation Army, whether it's in Fayette County, or Westmoreland, whatever is most convenient. Even a quick handout at a bell ringing person at a storefront where you shop for the holidays. A pretty no nonsense bunch, they really try their best to help those in need, so give them a little something, OK? Merely do what you can manage, that is enough. Giving has a way of making one feel, well, sort of, fulfilled. No preaching here. A little charity at this time of the year goes a long distance, and (whispered) such things are said to be good for the soul!

     Mt. Macrina Manor has its Drive Through Live Nativity scene on Dec. 11th in North Union Township, between 5-7 p. m. That's quite a beautiful site for those with a deeper religious persuasion. Ah, the Holy Family, the wise men, and...the angels.

                                      

                    
       I could go on and on. But, you know what? We should all take a brief walk around our neighborhoods, let's ask about and look around. The local churches, many of them, sponsor terrific Christmas shows. Not a member? Step into one nearby and they will most likely make you very welcome, indeed. Along with the higher, subtle manifestations of the occasion,  these pageants can be a fun, yet meaningful time to put aside an hour or two, at least once in a while. Much peace and love-filled emotion abounds.

      In other manners, perhaps be a little adventurous; a nice quiet evening ride through town or countryside will give most anyone a charming glimpse of brightly colored lights: red and greens, silver and gold, brilliant homes and softly glowing window candles, flashing sleighs, happy snowmen and glittering, incandescent sights to warm a chilled body or a cold heart.

     If these possibilities aren't your cup of tea, then simply make your home a brighter place, whether with fiber optic villages, or the unique feel of a favorite evergreen Christmas tree. The old days may be gone, yet we can bring back a true feeling of the magic as we still indulge in holiday treats, some cocoa, a box of chewy candy, pondering for a moment or two indulging ourselves while sitting with the kids reading "A Night Before Christmas."

    Have you been to a fort lately? I want to share such experiences soon.

    F/WFH will be back before you know it with a NEW substance-filled post of local historical interest. We just might be in the mood for a tidbit of Pennsylvania trivia and involvement in the election process at the time of the Inaugural in January as well. Do stay tuned.

     Bless you all,
     young and old, boy and girl, guys and gals. However you decide to celebrate the Yuletide as this year rolls to a close, remember a touch of Victorian tradition.

     Do have  A MERRY CHRISTMAS
                        A HAPPY NEW YEAR !

An Interview with the President of the Dunbar Historical Society

    Fayette/Westmoreland Forgotten History is proud to present an entertaining and informative question and answer session with the President of the Dunbar Historical Society, GUY ROSE. By all accounts this man is quite a popular gentleman and deeply interested in their regional history.

   
    Representing the Fayette County town named after Colonel Dunbar of French and Indian War fame once known as Frogtown and Dunbar City. The Society was founded in the year 1995. It's mission statement is to provide "an avenue to discuss, discover, collect and preserve any material that will establish and illustrate the history of Dunbar", and goes on to say, "to ensure that present and future generations can share in and understand their rich heritage." A quality outlook from the start.

   
   Mr. Rose has been the President of the Society for approximately three years. I had a few problems with different versions of Word, sorry for that. On that issue, Guy and his wife Pat, were seemed very understanding. Surprisingly, my brother Scott knew him from their days working at the Anchor Cap factory in South Connellsville, (something I had no awareness of when contemplating this written interview).


     Now remember, the History Contest from the last posting will end on this Friday, so hurry up and get those important submissions in soon! 
     The Winner along with the Answers will be provided in the next post. Good Luck!

 

Interview with the Dunbar Historical Society President:


     First, I was pleased to receive a phone call from Mr. Rose. I had the opportunity to converse with him and the chance in getting to know him personally while discussing various integral concerns.


   I really appreciate you personally taking the time to help us learn the underpinnings of your opinions, ideas and experiences with the Society you head in a region that contains so much fascinating history! WELCOME!


  1st Question:

    What primary impetus originally drove you to this deep interest in Dunbar?

  I was born in Dunbar, lived there in my youth and wanted to return to my roots.


  2nd Question:

      How do you and your fellow officers find time for your every day pursuits while investing so much time and energy into the various duties of the Dunbar Historical Society which include the Community Fest?

  We make time when there is a need.


   3rd Question:

     Here's a two parter:  First, Any thoughts about how the Society keeps the price of membership so reasonable? Second, what is the most meaningful aspect of the reconstructed coke oven?

  We use our members to promote and grow the Society and the oven is the center of Dunbar...a part of Dunbar.


   4th Question:

   Are there any associations with surrounding historical societies, and do you feel your Society is particularly close knit?

 Connellsville, we share information.


   5th Question:

    Would you name a few of the Dunbar sites or items that uniquely interest or intrigue you the most; perhaps the largest seated torso glass sculpture in the world, donated and returned to Dunbar by Donald Trump, the Sheepskin Trail, the clean up of the local Dunbar Creek, or maybe the unique collection of many photo albums and museum quality artifacts, or something else completely?

 Seated torso starting in Dunbar and its long journey back home.

 
    6th Question:

    What all is involved in the approach and research aspects to the Society's Newsletter?

  Using Facebook to keep every(body) posted as to what events the historical society has scheduled and posting new historical information.


     7th Question:

     Are you and your fellow officers' families also interest and excited by local history, and if so, how much?

 
   We cherish our Dunbar history and future involvement of new members.


    8th Question:

   What do you enjoy most about the monthly meetings?

 Discussion about society involvement in all the activities we plan.


     9th Question:

    Is there any other information you would care to pass on to visitors to the blog?

 Please visit our website and give us your input. 


     10th Question:

     Lastly, how long have you been President of the Dunbar Historical Society?

   Three years.


     Again, I want to give a big Thank You for allowing us to get a close up examination on Dunbar and its in-depth history along with your important personal observations. (The involvement of Secretary, Donna Myers and Guy Roses' wife, Pat are, of course, much appreciated).

   On a personal note, I hope Mr. Rose remains active as President with capable officers for many years to come.


   Here, I would like to include the address and phone number so visitors can make contact with them freely. Please seriously consider  JOINING up with the wonderful Dunbar Historical Society and doing your own small part in helping to preserving their amazing history

    Located at 42 Bridge Street, Dunbar, Pa. 15431; phone, 724-227-8800. Fri. - Sat. 10:00 A. M. to 2:00 P. M.

    The Monthly Meetings are at the Center on the second Wednesday of each month at precisely 6 o'clock.

    There is also the Facebook Page Guy refers to- "Friends of the Dunbar Historical Society."


   
   
Let's give a big  *Thank You*  to Guy Rose for undertaking this interview!

 
 

A History Contest: Winners and Answers!

  The time limit of submissions for the contest sponsored by Fayette/Westmoreland Forgotten History has passed on Friday , Nov. 18, at 10:00 P. M.

The acceptable answers to the 12 questions appear below:
 

Question No. 1

   What famous Revolutionary War hero is buried in a cemetery in Greensburg, Pa?

    Arthur St. Clair


 Question No. 2

   What unusual relic or item from Fayette County had a replica which was once kept at the West  Overton Museum?

      An exact copy of the Indian petroglyphs from Perryopolis


   Question No. 3

   Give the name of the third President of the Braddock Chapter of the Pennsylvania Society of the Sons of the American Revolution from the year 1932?

     J. Espey Sherrard


   Question No. 4

    In what vicinity was a plausible trace of the Braddock Road discovered which is also close to the  actual location the Turkey Foot Road probably crossed it? (HINT: This was related exclusively on this blog). Come on folks, haven't you read these posts? (That's still only ONE question!)

       Walnut Hill, Kingview Road, Crossroads, or George's Trading Post, on the border of Upper Tyrone and Bullskin townships, are all acceptable answers.



  Question No. 5

    Properly describe the 1700's location in which Jacobs Cabin existed according to warranty surveys? (The information can also be found on F/WFH). Legendary or mythical sites are not included here.

       At or near West Tech Drive,  the old Sony complex, now the RIDC building, between Mt. Pleasant and Hempfield townships.


   Question No. 6

     Before he moved on to Kentucky, the pioneering hero James Smith of Bedford County moved to what region in the late 1770's to mid-1780's where he later had a warranty survey?

       Near the waters of Jacobs Creek in Bullskin Township, Fayette County, in what was then Westmoreland County and previous to that, Bedford County.


   Question No. 7

     Toward the late 1960's and early 1970's, what music store once had outlets in Connellsville, Mount Pleasant and Scottdale?

      Brown's, sometimes known as the Record Center.



   Question No. 8
      A two part question:

    What ultimate authority gave the order for the building of the Turkey Foot Road, and who were the two men were responsible for this, one of which accomplished his work in Fayette and Westmoreland counties?

      George Washington, while Nathaniel Greene passed down the particular orders through Colonel George Morgan; the two road builders were: Colonel Providence Mounts and Captain Charles Clinton, (in that order)


    Question No. 9

    Tell the name of what popular establishment use to be on the right side at the corner of Pittsburgh Street in Scottdale at the second traffic light back in the !960's into the 1970's?

       The Nut Shop



    Question No. 10

     What well traveled author was the previous President of the Mount Pleasant Glass Museum?

    Cassandra Vivian



     Question No. 11

   What man held a warranty tract survey and an earlier, contested land claim within what became Bullskin Township, Fayette County where tradition said he arrived by 1767?

   Adam Hatfield (the first which was in the locality of Laurelville and was contested; the second, a survey warranted in his name of property which eventually became the Pleasant Valley Country Club).



  
     Question No. 12
(Here's a three part one, so do your best! TWO answers will be acceptable):


  Include one of the two months while giving the date Colonel James Burd build his fort, what was one of the known previous names for this place and who was involved with the earlier work on or very near to it?
   

        Late Oct. to early Nov. 1759, Redstone Old Fort, the Hangard; Captain Trent (in that order)



    
    
      NOTE: Unfortunately no one submitted the correct answers to 11 out of 12 of the questions, therefore there was no winner to be accepted and receive the $25.00 prize. I personally felt the degree of difficulty was not extreme, though it might of been on the tricky side. The responses were on the sparse side and rather disappointing. The format may not be repeated unless comments are favorable. IF good feedback is received, I will seriously consider holding another contest, possibly with answers that would appear easier, or would allow for more incorrect answers and still carry the prize.

LET THE BLOG KNOW IF VISITORS ARE INTERESTED! Thank you.
 
 More exciting historical topics will be explored in the near future, so please check back.