Fort Boonesborough State Park

The replica of the fort, complete with living historians, is located approximately 1/2 mile from the original fort connected by a foot trail or roadway. The original site has been documented by archeologic excavation and is explained in good detail by interpretive signage, markers and monuments at the site. 

 

The final marker for Boone Trace of the 15 in Kentucky placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1915 is also located here. Another marker identifies the site of “Sycamore Hollow” where Daniel Boone upon arrival about April 1, 1775 decided to place the fort. When Richard Henderson of the Transylvania Land Company, who had hired Daniel Boone to mark the Trace, arrived three weeks later moved the site to a higher location for fear of flooding.

 

Boonesborough became a major focal point for the host of pioneers migrating West in 1775 and thereafter. This tiny settlement would weather multiple Indian attacks, the capture and rescue of the daughters of Daniel Boone and Richard Callaway, the capture and captivity of Boone's salt makers, and a protracted siege of the fort by more the 400 Shawnee Indians. 

 

The opening of Boone Trace of 1775 combined with the Declaration of Independence of 1776 began the “Westward Movement” and beginning of our country when we first stopped being British Citizens and became Americans. And The “American Spirit” was born!

 

The park is supported by a very active and productive Fort Boonesborough Foundation. A visit to the park should begin with a stop at the campground Trading Post located on Hwy 388.

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