Fort Bedford

General Forbes and his army built Fort Bedford in June 1758. It was named for the Duke of Bedford, and intended to be a supply post for his expedition to capture Fort Duquesne. Forbes and his army had a fairly easy time getting from Carlisle to Raystown, now Bedford, thanks to the road started by James Burd.

Fort Bedford was an important communication and supply link for Forbes' army. It also attracted traders, merchants, and farmers to the surrounding town thanks to the security provided by the fort.

Now it's your turn to take a trip through Fort Bedford (except on Tuesdays, they're closed!). There's no better way to learn about history than up close and personal.

The Fort Bedford marker was dedicated on Friday, October 6, 1972. It reads: "First known as Raystown and built during the summer of 1758 by the forces of Col. Henry Bouquet, the fort was the rendezvous from which the expedition of Gen. Forbes advanced to occupy Fort Duquesne (Pittsburgh). Museum stands on the original site."