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On Sunday, September 25th, The June Buchanan seniors traveled to Fort Harrod and Fort Boonesborough. History instructor Larry Hayes stated, “Students saw Kentucky’s first permanent settlement, butter churning, a battle reenactment, and a whole lot more. The seniors were able to see cabins, crafts, and the shearing of sheep wool. I think every student in Kentucky needs to see the special parts of what makes our state so unique and special.”

Fort Harrod, established by James Harrod in 1774 as the first permanent settlement in Kentucky, was reconstructed near the original site. The students visited this area as costumed craftsman performed essential tasks in the pioneer days such as woodworking, blacksmithing, basketry, and weaving. Students also viewed how farm animals and gardens were tended.  Another sojourn was made to the Lincoln Marriage Temple, which is the actual log cabin where Lincoln’s parents were married. This area allowed students to see the Mansion Museum where Civil War artifacts and Lincoln memorabilia are housed.

JBS senior Sadie Haigler reflected on the trip, saying, “We saw Constitution Square. It had Kentucky’s three constitutions, and also Kentucky’s first post office. We also saw the fort’s graveyard and a big memorial statue to the first pioneers of Kentucky! That was my favorite part.” Student Bridgett Howard also said, “We then drove to Harrodsburg. There we saw people make lye soap, rag dolls, and wooden sculptures. It was very beautiful and interesting to learn about.”

Students also had the chance to observe the reenactment of The Siege of Fort Boonesborough in 1778. This original fort was built by Daniel Boone and his men in 1775. Seniors watched the “Night Battle” at dusk and spent the day learning about 18th century life in Kentucky. In the course of the reenactment, students saw militia and settler’s camps, 18th century cannon firing demonstrations, a Native American village, merchants, and traders. Upon completion of the visit, students ventured over to the gift shops to find a keepsake to remember their historical field trip.