Prickett’s Fort is a must-stop for any nature or history lover. The rustic fort overlooks the scenic Monongahela River, filled with West Virginia’s wild and wonderful creatures. The recreation of the 1774 Prickett’s Fort was built in 1976 by the Prickett’s Fort Memorial Foundation. The park foundation is responsible for all fundraising, event programming, building restoration and construction, and as well as educational outreaching in the community.  The foundation is currently developing a hands-on arts-based curriculum called “Teaching History Through the Arts” with support from a Benedum Foundation grant.

The Fort served as a refuge from Native American war parties in Colonial Virginia. The fort now serves as a living history, where the 18th century life is celebrated. Throughout the season,  visitors will see the Fort artisans in periodic attire performing 18c. professions such as: blacksmiths, spinners, weavers and other traditional artisans at work, and a gun shop which features the only public demonstrations of 18th century firearm manufacturing in the state.

This weekend, February 26-28, 2016, Prickett’s Fort is hosting its 18th Century Guns and Accoutrements Show from Friday 1 to 6 pm, Saturday 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday 9 am to 3 pm.

$3 admission for adults and children under the age of 5 is free. The admission will be collected at the door, and proceeds benefit the Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation.

The Prickett’s Fort 18 c. Firearms and Accoutrements Show offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family! The annual event will have numerous vendors and best craftsmen from the Appalachian area (PA, WV, VA, OH, and NY), who specialize in crafting 18th century weaponry, such as: rifles, gunpowder horns, knives, tomahawks and decorative items, including leather pouches and Indian quilt work. The event will have these unique collections that will also be available for purchase.

After shopping at the Firearms and Accoutrement Show, swing by the Visitor Center with Orientation Gallery and Museum Gift Shop; they are open year round free of charge. Tours of both structures and special events are offered in season. Prickett’s Fort is also surrounded by a beautiful state park that offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors.  The Park has a 400 seat amphitheater that holds various concerts and performing arts during the summer, the Prickett’s Creek and Bay where the fish are plentiful and have easy access boating facilities. For hiking enthusiasts, the Prickett’s Fort Nature Trail has 25 interpretive stations to help introduce guests to the flora and fauna of north central West Virginia. Additional hiking is afforded by the MC Trail, a converted rails to trails for walkers, joggers and cyclists

Prickett’s Fort offers a wide range of activities and events for everyone, whether you are a historic enthusiast or a nature nut –Prickett’s Fort has it all!

Debra Smith

Directions: Two miles off I-79 at Exit 139.

Contact information: info@prickettsfort.org  (304) 363-3030 or 1-800-CALL-WVA