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Kelly aims to designate 'Washington's Trail' as national historic trail

December 4, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- This week, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA) introduced H.R. 6506(link is external), a bill that would direct the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study to designate Washington's Trail as a national historic trail.

Washington's Trail traces the steps George Washington traveled in 1753 on his way to Fort LeBoeuf in present-day Waterford, Pa., Erie County. The Trail -- which includes portions of Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia -- crosses through Butler, Venango, Mercer, Crawford, and Erie counties.

"By designating Washington's Trail as a national historic trail, we create an opportunity to preserve this history, to build community pride, to connect communities, promote economic revitalization, and create jobs while telling this story of George Washington and the birth of our nation," Rep. Kelly said. "I commend the work of local volunteers who have brought George Washington's journey to life. This legislation builds upon their work for current and future generations to enjoy."

Representatives Glenn Thompson (R-PA), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), Summer Lee (D-PA), Chris Deluzio (D-PA), and Alex Mooney (R-WV) are original co-sponsors of Rep. Kelly's legislation.

 

BACKGROUND

  • On October 30, 1753, Virginia Governor Robert Dinwiddie commissioned then 21-year-old George Washington to deliver a letter to French forces who had assembled some 500 miles away at Fort LeBoeuf (present day Waterford, PA).
  • French forces had been constructing forts, which was a violation of “the treaties now subsisting between the two Crowns” (Britain and France).
  • The letter was to be delivered to the Commanding Officer, instructing them to depart and demanding a letter in return.
  • Washington was also tasked with working with Native tribes to gather information on the growing French forces.
  • The French and Indian war began not long after Washington returned to Williamsburg, VA on January 16, 1754. 

Last week, on November 30(link is external), volunteers with "Washington's Trail" installed an information marker in Harmony borough, Butler County to commemorate George Washington's visit 270 years to the day.