Exactly How Old is Old Forbes Road?

Forbes Road, constructed in 1758 under the command of General John Forbes, extended 200 miles through the western Pennsylvania wilderness. Through WPC's Ligonier Valley Program, portions of the Forbes Road corridor have been permanently protected to help preserve this important component of America's history.

In the mid-18th century, France and Great Britain were aggressively vying for possession of what is now Western Pennsylvania. General John Forbes was given the task of capturing Fort Duquesne at the “Forks of the Ohio” (present day Point State Park in Pittsburgh) from the French. Forbes ordered the construction of a road from Fort Bedford to Hanna's Town (near Greensburg) to facilitate the movement of troops and supplies. Within one month the road had been completed and Forbes and his troops had arrived at Fort Ligonier. The French, realizing they were outnumbered, set Fort Duquesne on fire and withdrew. After the French retreat, Forbes Road allowed British settlers to push further westward into the Ohio River country.

Portions of the road are still evident in the Ligonier Valley. East of Ligonier, State Route 1010 follows the path of the Forbes Road. A stone marker and plaque have been erected to commemorate the location of the road.

This marker is located adjacent to the Thomas Farm, which is currently for sale through WPC's Conservation Buyer Program. Today's photo above shows a signpost from the historic marker and a portion of the Thomas Farm in the background. The 78-acre farm features scenic views of the Ligonier Valley, and provides open space near the town of Ligonier.

By using a variety of conservation techniques, WPC's Ligonier Valley Program is working with the local community to protect and enhance the scenic, historic and natural character of corridors like the Old Forbes Road. Protection of these resources will benefit not just the residents of the Ligonier Valley, but will allow visitors from around the nation and the world to enjoy the combination of historic significance and natural beauty that make western Pennsylvania so unique.

Source of Forbes Road history: Shirey, Sally. (2001) Ligonier Valley. Images of America series. Charleston, SC: Arcadia Publishing.

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