Fort Halifax (Pennsylvania) facts for kids

Fort Halifax was an important temporary fort built a long time ago, during a big war called the French and Indian War. It was located in Pennsylvania, near a town that is now called Halifax. This fort helped protect the area from 1756 to 1757.

What Was Fort Halifax?

Fort Halifax was a temporary military outpost. It was built to help protect settlers in northern Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. The fort was active during the French and Indian War, which was a conflict between Great Britain and France, along with their Native American allies.

Where Was Fort Halifax Located?

The fort was built along the Susquehanna River. This is near the modern-day borough of Halifax, Pennsylvania. Today, the area where the fort once stood is part of the Halifax Township Park and Conservation Area. This park covers about 174 acres (0.7 square kilometers). It borders the Susquehanna River and includes a long part of Armstrong Creek.

Why Was Fort Halifax Built?

Fort Halifax was built as part of a chain of forts along the Susquehanna River. These forts were important for defending the frontier during the French and Indian War. It was a "subpost," meaning it supported larger forts like Fort Harris, Fort Hunter, and Fort Augusta. The main goal was to protect the settlers from attacks during the war.

Who Built and Guarded Fort Halifax?

The fort was built by Colonel William Clapham. He followed orders from Governor Robert Hunter Morris. Governor Morris was the leader of Pennsylvania at that time. The fort was guarded by soldiers from the Third Battalion of the Pennsylvania Provincial Regiment. These were local soldiers protecting their home area.

What Did Fort Halifax Look Like?

Fort Halifax was a square-shaped fort. It measured about 160 feet (49 meters) on each side. It was made from logs, forming a strong fence called a stockade. The fort also had four bastions. These were strong, projecting parts of the fort that allowed defenders to shoot at enemies from different angles.

What Happened to Fort Halifax?

The fort was originally called "Camp at Armstrong." Governor Morris changed its name to Fort Halifax in 1756. It was used for about a year, from 1756 to 1757. By 1763, the war was ending, and the fort was no longer needed. Because of this, it was taken apart.

Fort Halifax Today

Even though the fort is gone, you can still visit a monument that remembers it. A stone monument was put up in 1926. It is located along Pennsylvania Route 147 north of Halifax, near Armstrong Creek. The entire Halifax Township was named to honor this historic fort.