Many important pieces of early American history which tell the story of our nation are tied to Ohiopyle. This area, which provides rest and recreation, once held a past with many conflicts.

In the mid-1750s, the French and the British vied for the Ohio River Valley. Employed by the British, George Washington traveled through the Ohiopyle area to talk to the French in 1753.

A year later, Washington returned with 150 soldiers to evict the French. Washington arrived at Confluence and tried to find an easier travel route by river. However, the falls were impassable.

Washington continued toward the future site of Pittsburgh and encountered a small party of French soldiers. One French soldier escaped and sought reinforcements. Washington built Fort Necessity to await the French retaliation.

Overwhelming French forces caused Washington to surrender. The French and Indian War had begun. Two British armies cut roads through the area, eventually defeating the French and securing the important Ohio River Valley.

Fort Necessity National Battlefield is located along The National Road (US Rt 40)

The park grounds are open daily from Sunrise - Sunset, all year.

Ohiopyle is just a few miles away from some very important historical sites. Pennsylvania as a whole played a major role in becoming what the United States is today, but prior to the Revolutionary War, this area in the Laurel Highlands was the location of a confrontation that would prelude to the war fought by France and England for control over North America, the French and Indian War, or the Seven Years’ War.

Fort Necessity

The initial battle took place at Fort Necessity in the summer of 1754 led by a young George Washington. The action at Fort Necessity was the first major event in his career, and the only time he had ever surrendered to the enemy. The war eventually ended in 1763 with the removal of French power from North America and India.

General Braddock

On the retreat from an ill-fated expedition to capture French-held Fort Duquesne, British General Edward Braddock succumbed to his injuries less than 1 mile from Fort Necessity. He was buried under the road in an unmarked grave where wagons proceeded to drive in order for his grave to remain undisturbed and prevent desecration from the French. 

In 1804 some workman discovered human remains where he was supposedly buried, and the officer’s uniform and buttons indicated that the remains were indeed General Braddock. The remains were re-buried in a small knoll off the road in 1913, and a grave marker still stands a mere few feet from the National Pike to this day. 

"...Thus died a man, whose good and bad qualities were intimately blended. "

- George Washington

Mount Washington Tavern

Mount Washington Tavern was built as a stage coach stop along the National Road. Today, it functions as a museum where visitors can learn about life along the National Pike in the 1700’s.

If you appreciate American history, or like to learn new things, I strongly encourage you to visit the many historical sites the Ohiopyle area is known for. Whether you visit Fort Necessity National Battlefield, drive along the National Road, visit Mount Washington Tavern, or make a pit stop at General Braddock’s grave you won’t be disappointed with the history this area has to offer. So come for the day, or come for a stay. If you are in need of a vacation house in this area, Ohiopyle Vacation Rentals can provide your accommodations.