Fort Mahoning
This is a small re-creation of an 18th century log fort or blockhouse typical of this area. The building was erected in Smicksburg by Amish craftsmen using local logs and authentic saddle-notch construction and then moved to this site. Log buildings could be built quickly and cheaply using simple hand tools and basic skills.
Hundreds of these forts once existed in Pennsylvania, but only a few have survived. The closest forts to this area were Thompson's Blockhouse (1790) in Rayne Township, Indiana County, and Clark's Blockhouse in Plumcreek Township, Armstrong County.
Threats of attack from Native Americans continued until after the War of 1812, and late as 1818 buildings were still being constructed in Mahoning Township for the purpose of defense against attack.
Marker can be reached from Hemlock Acres Road 2.2 miles north of Pennsylvania Route 954.
Courtesy hmdb.org
