Fort Western (1754) National Historic Landmark and Living History Museum on the Kennebec River in Augusta, in conjunction with the City of Augusta, will host an Independence Day Celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 4.
The City of Augusta’s Independence Day Parade begins at 10 a.m. at the State Capital. It goes from Capital Street to State Street through Memorial Circle to Water Street, turning right onto Cony Street and ending at the entrance of Old Fort Western, according to a news release from Linda Novak, fort director.
Immediately after the parade’s conclusion, Augusta Mayor Mark O’Brien will take the stage to read the Declaration of Independence in 18th-century dress. A “feu de joie” (musket salute) by fort staff will accompany the reading, followed by a special ceremony following George Washington’s orders of July 4, 1778, for the “firing thirteen Pieces of Cannon” honoring the original colonies, followed by the lowering of the Grand Union Flag and the raising of the “new” American flag.
Throughout the day, except during the hour of the mayor’s speech and the cannonade, tours are available for visitors to walk through the fort, store, and house to view period rooms and exhibits and talk with historical interpreters about daily life in the 18th century and the history of the fort.
There will be period music by The Holdfast from 1-3 p.m., and this year marks the return of the Independence Day Hotdog fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. New this year, Le Club Calumet will host a chicken barbecue on the fort grounds.
The City of Augusta’s family friendly Independence Day event will begin at at 1 p.m. at Mill Park with activities for children, hay rides, music, and food vendors. Festivities will end at 9:15 p.m. with the traditional fireworks display.
For more information, call 207-626-2385, email oldfort@oldfortwestern.org, visit oldfortwestern.org, or Facebook.
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