Maine's Capital Area

Fort Western (1754) National Historic Landmark and Living History Museum will host an Independence Day Celebration Tuesday, July 4, 2017, from 10:00am until 4:00pm on the east bank of the Kennebec River in the heart of downtown Augusta.

Throughout the day, visitors are invited 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. Daniel Savage’s Company will be present to demonstrate life as Revolutionary War soldiers and their role at Fort Western. At 12:00pm, a special ceremony will be held in accordance with George Washington’s orders (July 4, 1778) by “firing thirteen Pieces of Cannon” honoring the original colonies, followed by the lowering of the British colors and the raising of the “new” American flag.

At 4:00pm, the Augusta Parade will begin at the State House and end at Fort Western. At 5:30pm, Augusta’s Mayor, David Rollins, will give the traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence in 18th century costume. A “feu de joie” (rifle salute) by Daniel Savage’s Company will accompany the reading and patriotic music will be provided by the Liberty String Band. At 9:00pm don’t miss the traditional fireworks display at Mill Park!

There is NO CHARGE to view the Mayor’s reading of the Declaration at 5:30pm. The reading will be “outside” the Fort gates (facing Cony Street) this year.

Admission rates: $10.00 Adults, $6.00 Children (6-14), $8.00 Seniors & Veterans, $25.00 family (5), and $1.00 AAA discounts. Augusta residents and active military are free of charge. New hours: June: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays, 10-4pm; July - August: Open Daily 10-4pm; September: Friday, Saturday, Sundays, & Mondays, 10-4pm; October: Open Daily, 10-4pm.

Fort Western (1754) is America’s oldest surviving wooden French & Indian War garrison illuminating 300 years of Maine and New England history. For more information, please visit our website at www.oldfortwestern.org or call 626-2385 or e-mail us at .